September sees the return of Vitrum, showcase for a supply chain worth over 6 billion euro

A supply chain that - between glass processing companies and manufacturers of plants for processing this material - generates over 6 billion euros in turnover and represents one of the peaks of excellence in Italian industry. It is to this composite world that Vitrum, the international exhibition dedicated to machinery, equipment and systems for flat and hollow glass, which this year will be held from 16 to 19 September at Fiera Milano, addresses. This edition will relaunch the event's positioning, marking its evolution from an exhibition event to a system platform at the service of a sector in transformation.

To date, 153 exhibitors have been confirmed, who will present their novelties in two pavilions, with an increase of over 30% of foreign exhibitors. Of particular note is the presence of over 100 top international buyers from 13 countries, selected in cooperation with Ice - Agency.

"Vitrum 2025 aims to be a fundamental tool for enhancing the productive and innovative capacity of glass manufacturing: a point of convergence where industry, research, institutions, training and innovation will be in continuous dialogue to outline the future of the sector," explains Lucia Masutti, general manager of the event. The presence of major manufacturers such as Saint-Gobain and Pilkington, of processors such as Glass Group, as well as the active participation of universities, research centres and start-ups, will make Vitrum 2025 a fundamental appointment for a supply chain in continuous evolution'.

The first reference level of the fair is in fact that of the Italian glass processing plant and technology industry, represented by Gimav: the segment has a high export vocation (over 70% of production), and a total turnover estimated at around 3 billion euros in 2024. Italian companies in this segment successfully preside over global markets, with the United States, Germany, Turkey and Saudi Arabia among the main destinations, and growing performance also in North Africa and Latin America.

The second strategic axis is represented by the Italian glass manufacturing market, which, according to Assovetro data, has reached a leading position in Europe, overtaking Germany. The sector, considering Assovetro members, is worth 3.2 billion euros and employs 16,526 people, an increase of +3% compared to the previous year. This is a sector that, despite international uncertainties, has been able to demonstrate resilience and the ability to relaunch, making a significant contribution to the competitiveness of Made in Italy.