The marble sector of Massa-Carrara, long recognized for its contribution to the global market, has undergone significant transformations in recent years. According to Istat data for the end of 2021, the industry faces both challenges and opportunities. While the number of businesses and employees in the sector has declined, the industry’s export performance and adaptability underscore its resilience.
Shrinking Workforce and Enterprises
As of 2021, the marble industry in Massa-Carrara employed approximately 4,051 individuals, marking a 9.3% decrease from 2015 and a 14% drop compared to 2010. Most employees are concentrated in Carrara (662 workers) and Massa (289 workers), with this distribution remaining consistent over time. However, the overall number of enterprises has contracted. Since 2010, the sector has seen an 8% reduction in businesses, equating to a loss of 83 companies. The decline accelerated after 2015, with a reduction of 124 enterprises, representing an 11% drop.
The industry’s aging workforce adds another layer of concern. Over 50% of workers are above the age of 50, and women, while still underrepresented, now make up nearly 500 of the total employees, particularly in roles related to commerce and marble processing.
Evolving Business Structure
The marble industry’s increasing focus on service-oriented activities is evident in the growing prominence of wholesale trade. As of 2021, wholesale trade accounted for 560 enterprises, followed by 249 companies in processing, 120 in extraction, and 73 in technology and abrasives. This shift highlights the sector’s adaptation to market demands while emphasizing the importance of trade in its economic model.
Export as a Pillar of Growth
Exports remain a critical strength for Massa-Carrara’s marble sector. By the end of 2023, the region accounted for 85% of the Apuo-Versilian area’s marble exports, which include Lucca and La Spezia.
- Raw Marble: Exports of marble blocks and slabs reached €189 million, slightly down from the €200 million peak in 2022 but showing a 23% increase from 2013. China remains the largest importer, absorbing 51% of these exports with nearly €100 million in purchases.
- Processed Marble: Finished marble products generated €373 million in exports, a decline from €415 million in 2022 but a 13% improvement over 2013. The United States stands out as the primary destination, accounting for €150 million (40% of exports in this category).
Resilient Financial Performance
Despite the pandemic’s challenges, the marble sector demonstrated robust financial health. Data from 2022 reveals that the average turnover per company rose by 14% compared to 2019, reaching €3.2 million. This growth was driven largely by exports and activities in wholesale trade and marble processing, while the technology and abrasives segment also saw double-digit gains.
Notably, medium and large companies (with production values exceeding €10 million) reported a 25% increase in revenue between 2019 and 2022, outperforming smaller enterprises. Meanwhile, micro-enterprises experienced a 7% decline in revenues.
Cost Management and Profitability
The local availability of raw materials has provided a strategic advantage for businesses, mitigating some cost pressures. While labor costs rose by 8% per company, this was significantly lower than the 19% increase experienced by other sectors in the province.
Profit margins remain robust, with 9% of revenues translating into net profit in 2022—nearly double the average profitability of other capital companies in the region.
A Sector Poised for the Future
Despite facing workforce reductions and structural challenges, Massa-Carrara’s marble industry remains a global leader, particularly in exports. By leveraging its strengths in wholesale trade and adapting to evolving market demands, the sector continues to solidify its position in the international arena. With sustained investment in technology and a focus on skilled labor, the marble industry is well-positioned to overcome its current challenges and seize future opportunities.
