World

Mauro Bergozza takes the helm of Assomac at a challenging time for the industry

Dec 5, 2024 Italy

Mauro Bergozza, CEO of Bergi, has been chosen to succeed Maria Vitoria Brustia at the helm of Assomac at a time when exports of footwear and leather machinery are in decline

The Italian association of tanning, footwear and leather goods machinery manufacturers (Assomac), elected Mauro Bergozza, current vice-president of the association and CEO of Bergi, as its new president at its last general assembly on the 29^th of November. He succeeds Maria Vitoria Brustia, who has led Assomac for the last few years.

Bergozza takes the helm at a difficult time for the industry, with exports down by 6.7% year-on-year in the first eight months of the year. This decline was only partially offset by growth in some import markets, including China (up 22% year-on-year), Vietnam (up 163%) and Brazil (up 32%). These figures are a step back from the 2023 export growth of 1.53%, which is still lower than in previous years, reflecting global economic difficulties, geopolitical crises and increased trade barriers.

“We live in a time of great challenges for the manufacturing sector, in which networking and creating a strong representation are essential necessities”, pointed out the newly appointed President. “It is essential to strengthen the technological identity of our sector, investing in research, innovation and sustainability. Only in this way will we be able to fully valorise Made in Italy and successfully face international competition”.

Mauro Bergozza, who is the second generation to run Bergi, a family business specialising in the manufacture of tannery machinery, brings to the presidency the commercial and financial management expertise of a company that combines tradition and innovation. He has also been with Assomac since 1996, holding various positions up to that of Vice President.

He will lead the association alongside Cristiano Paccagnella, General Manager of Omac, who has been confirmed as Vice-President, and Massimo Angeleri, CEO of Officina Meccanica Angeleri, who has been appointed as a new Vice-President.

“We will work to develop common standards that promote the quality and safety of our technologies, while continuing to build strategic alliances, both at national and European level. Our goal is a future in which our member companies can distinguish themselves for excellence and ability to transition to more advanced production models”, he concluded.

Image Credits: arsutoriastudio.com