This page gives a brief run-down of the Marche's strong manufacturing industries. Use the Regional authority's searchable comprehensive database to find full details of the region's manufacturers. Under resources you'll find useful links and e-mail addresses.
The region's thriving manufacturing sector is regarded as an unusual and successful economic model both in Italy and abroad, and is based on a widely-spread network of very small, family-run businesses. It is backed by a strong entrepreneurial spirit whose roots lie in the ancient family traditions of the Marche's contadino, or peasant farmers.
Perhaps the greatest advantage of this system of production is its flexibility. The region's manufacturers are able both to adapt production to the rapidly changing needs of the global market and to survive periods of economic recession.
It is also important to point out that, alongside manufacturing, the Marche boasts a wealth of outstandingly beautiful countryside, fine coastline and a well-conserved artistic heritage that make it ideal for flourishing tourism and cultural industries.
The region's industrial sector works in a number of highly specialised areas. In all, 44.74% of the region's working population are employed in the footwear, mechanical engineering, furniture, clothing and textile industries.
The region's 50 largest firms work mainly in the following sectors: footwear, domestic appliances, furniture, telecommunications, electrical components and clothing. Many of these companies have become well known outside Italy.
However, most of Marche industry is founded upon small and medium sized family businesses, employing on average only 5.5 staff.
Around 78% of Marche exports come from the following industrial sectors :
- Machinery 33.5%
- Footwear 28.6%
- Furniture 7.8%
- Clothing 6.5%
The machinery industry produces several world-famous domestic appliance products as well as working in such specialist areas as telecommunications. The Marche also has the world's highest concentration of cooker hood manufacturers.
The footwear industry has built up a well established reputation throughout the world, and is centred around Fermo in the centre of the Marche.
The furniture sector covers a wide area of production, from fitted kitchen units to kitchen and living room furniture and reed and wicker work.
The clothing sector includes knitwear, jeans, hosiery and underwear as well as hat-making.
Marche industry also extends to cover other specialist areas such as printed plastic materials, shipbuilding, musical instruments, paper, agricultural produce and traditional crafts.