Italy: Tradition Meets Industry
With manufacturing output of nearly $340 billion, Italy’s manufacturing is a blend of history, luxury and industrial innovation. Italy, also known for its luxury textiles and fashion, has many internationally recognized luxury fashion brands, including Gucci, Prada, and Armani. Italy is also known for its style and performance in the automobile industry with Ferrari, Lamborghini, and Fiat. The ability to combine craftsmanship with industrial efficiency is unique to Italy and gives it a place in the global manufacturing landscape.
Marco Bizzarri, Former CEO and President, Gucci, said, “We are working continuously in terms of using new materials, renewable energy, and technology to change our processes. I think it's important that we continue in that direction, and set targets going forward that are more and more ambitious.”
Industry Minister Adolfo Urso said, “Italy is preparing to become one of the largest microelectronics producers in Europe.”
France: Aerospace and Luxury
France's manufacturing sector accounts for roughly $300 billion and relies on aerospace, automotive, and luxury manufacturing. The country is host to Airbus, one of the largest aircraft manufacturers in the world, as well as Dassault Aviation, which builds military and civilian aircraft.
“The aerospace sector is a champion industry for France, with over 10 years’ worth of orders on its books. It contributes to the country’s sovereignty and international outreach. But we shouldn’t take its success for granted. Unless it receives strong, long-term support from the government, the industry will not succeed in rising to the unprecedented global challenges it faces today. We must ensure that the aerospace sector remains a strength for France, to build tomorrow’s industry, as a key pillar of our economic, technological and security independence”, said Guillaume Faury, President of GIFAS.
France is very solid in the pharmacy space due to having a strong research element and a strong healthcare sector. Luxury goods are another pillar, with brands such as Louis Vuitton, Chanel and Diol completely redefining the world of fashion and cosmetics. Finally, France is also famous for its spirits and wines, which also contributes to their manufacturing reputation.