“The manufacturing sector is facing a complex period, but this is no time for defeatism. In fact, now is the moment to seize the best opportunities”. This philosophy defines the approach of Giacomo Mareschi Danieli, CEO of Danieli Group, a global industrial machinery manufacturer with over 100 years of excellence in the metals industry. In an interview with the Italian newspaper “Il Nord Est”, the CEO shared his insights on current affairs, addressing critical topics that extend beyond just the economy.
The interview opens with a focus on the Group’s performance and the results expected for 2025. “We’ve had three exceptional years following the pandemic, but now the situation is more challenging”, the CEO said, adding that “the first half of the 2024-2025 fiscal year was weak. The positive note is that our clients are still pursuing investment projects. However, many remain cautious, waiting to see how the markets evolve”. As emphasized by Giacomo Mareschi Danieli, the plant-making sector continues to be very strong for the Group, while, as for steelmaking (ABS steel mill, the goal is to break even: “We are a highly diversified Group, and challenges don’t intimidate us”, he added.
According to Giacomo Mareschi Danieli, we can expect a market recovery in the steel sector by the second half of this year, despite its cyclical nature and global economic uncertainties. Key investment areas include automotive, infrastructure, and decarbonization, though the latter is currently experiencing a slowdown. For its part, Danieli Group is exploring strategic acquisitions, both in Italy and abroad, to expand its portfolio with specialized companies in steel and aluminum. Additionally, a €400 million investment in a new green plant at ABS in Friuli is set to launch this year. Regarding the ex-Ilva plant in Taranto, the CEO stressed that the Groups was not interested in acquiring it but is open to collaborating with the future owner, offering advanced technologies such as electric furnaces and revamping.
In the interview, Giacomo Mareschi Danieli also highlighted the Group’s commitment to the major project with Metinvest in Piombino, calling it “strategic for our business, the technology involved, and the importance of our strong industrial partner”. Danieli Group holds a 25% stake in the project financing, with a supply value of €1 billion, making it one of Italy’s most significant investments. Design could begin this semester, with construction starting by late 2025 or early 2026.
To conclude the interview, the CEO touched on further key economic topics. He expressed hope that the European Central Bank would implement more aggressive interest rate cuts to stimulate the economy, and, on global politics and trade, he highlighted potential impacts of U.S. tariffs and China’s internal economic struggles. He also noted that, while tariffs could introduce inflation in Europe, Danieli Group’s lack of American competitors mitigates concerns. Additionally, he emphasized that China’s current economic downturn presents opportunities for strategic purchases.
