The Italian wood and furniture industry, a key pillar of the country`s manufacturing sector, is facing a growing skills shortage. According to a recent study by FederlegnoArredo, the sector will require at least 22,000 new qualified workers by 2028 to sustain growth, innovation, and international competitiveness.

The demand for skilled labor spans across various specializations, including:

- Wood processing: sawmill operators, carpenters, and machine technicians
- Furniture production: assemblers, finishers, and designers
- Sustainable forestry: experts in certified wood sourcing and environmental management.

The shortage is primarily driven by an aging workforce and a lack of young professionals entering the sector. Many experienced workers are retiring, while vocational training institutions are struggling to attract students to woodworking professions. The Italian wood and furniture sector is an essential part of the "Made in Italy" brand, known for its high-quality craftsmanship and innovative design. In 2023, the industry generated €49 billion in revenue, with over 75% of furniture production exported to markets such as the EU, the US, and China.
However, to maintain this growth, companies need to adapt to new technologies such as automation, CNC machining, and sustainable materials, requiring a new generation of skilled workers.

The labor demand varies by region:

- Lombardy, Veneto, and Friuli Venezia Giulia – Strong industrial hubs requiring advanced technical skills.
- Tuscany and Emilia-Romagna – Known for luxury furniture and artisanal woodworking, needing craftsmanship expertise.
- Southern Italy – Focusing on revitalizing traditional woodcraft to support local economies.

To bridge the skills gap, Italian institutions are launching training programs and apprenticeships in collaboration with industry leaders. The Wood & Furniture Academy, an initiative backed by FederlegnoArredo, aims to train thousands of young professionals in technical and digital skills by 2028.

The workforce shortage presents both challenges and opportunities:

- Companies must invest in training to attract young talent and upskill existing employees.
- Automation and digitalization will play a key role in offsetting labor shortages.
- International recruitment may become necessary to meet demand.

For businesses navigating workforce challenges, WoodBusinessPortal.com offers insights into market trends, recruitment strategies, and training programs to help industry professionals stay competitive.

Sources:
1. federlegnoarredo.it
2. wwd.com
3. wood-furnitureacademy.it
4. camcom.it