The Italian semi-trailer market faced significant hurdles in 2024, with registrations plummeting by 13% compared to the previous year. According to data from Anfia, the market closed the year with 13,512 units sold, a decrease of 2,040 units from 2023. The downturn reflected weakened demand in a global context shaped by geopolitical and economic instability. Foreign manufacturers bore the brunt of the decline, experiencing a 21% drop in sales, from 9,399 units in 2023 to 7,432 in 2024. In contrast, Italian producers showed relative stability, with registrations falling by just 1.2%, from 6,151 to 6,080 units.
Historical data reveal a nuanced picture of the sector’s performance. From 2020 to 2022, the market experienced robust growth, culminating in a 23% surge in 2021 with 15,124 registrations. However, 2023 marked the beginning of a slowdown, with registrations dropping by 8%—a prelude to the challenges of 2024. Schmitz retained its position as the market leader, despite a significant 25.1% decline in sales, dropping from 2,428 units in 2023 to 1,821 in 2024. Kögel followed, limiting its losses to 5.8% with 1,548 registrations. Menci, the third-largest player, saw an 8% decline but secured its market position with a stable share. Notably, Tecnokar emerged as a standout performer, achieving a 7% growth and climbing to fourth place with 1,071 units sold. Conversely, Krone fell to fifth position after a 30% drop, recording just 888 registrations.
Among Italian manufacturers, Viberti and Omar demonstrated adaptability despite market challenges. Viberti held on to sixth place despite a 23.2% loss, while CCFC made a remarkable entry into the top ten with an 82.4% growth in registrations, reaching 228 units. This success underscores the potential of innovation and targeted strategies, even in difficult times.
The Italian semi-trailer market remains heavily influenced by external factors such as rising raw material costs, logistical difficulties, and global economic uncertainty. These challenges directly impact companies' investment decisions, making short-term recovery prospects uncertain. To navigate this turbulent landscape, manufacturers must tackle several key issues, including diversifying product lines and meeting evolving sustainability and digitalisation demands. Success will hinge on their ability to adapt to these emerging trends and foster resilience in a volatile global environment.
Massimiliano Barberis
