SCM Group demonstrates strength and leadership at Xylexpo 2024

Xylexpo 2024, the most important trade fair dedicated to technologies and equipment for the woodworking industry in Italy, witnessed a show of strength from SCM Group, the Italian leader in the sector. In a press conference held on the occasion, on the first day of the event, SCM's top management presented the company's vision for the future of the industry, based on innovation, digitalization, sustainability and customer focus.

Record results in 2023 and optimistic outlook

Opening the conference, Luigi De Vito, CEO of SCM Group, emphasized the excellent performance in 2023, when the group surpassed the 900 million euro turnover threshold, thanks to both the Wood Division and the other entities - CMS (technologies for other materials) and Hiteco. Despite a difficult macroeconomic backdrop, SCM officials are optimistic about the development of orders in the second half of 2024 and in 2025. The reasons cited are the group's consistent investments in products, services and global expansion, the company's financial strength, and the stability and expertise of its management team.

71TPTP3T of turnover invested in innovation

One notable statement was that SCM Group allocates 7% of turnover to innovation annually, a percentage well above the industry average. "Focused" innovation, concentrated on segments where the company can create the most added value, such as CNC machining centers, edge application solutions and finishing technologies, is the key to maintaining and strengthening leadership.

Integrated technologies in complete customer solutions

The SCM booth at Xylexpo reflected this philosophy, eschewing the classic approach of showcasing individual machines in favor of a process-oriented view. All technologies and innovations were integrated into complete workflows and digitally connected through the proprietary IoT platform Maestro Connect. This gave customers a clear picture of how they can improve the productivity and sustainability of their own manufacturing processes using SCM solutions.

Beyond technology: software, services, people

The "SCM is more" philosophy was explained by Pietro Gheller, the newly appointed Director of the Wood Division. Beyond machinery and equipment, the SCM offering brings added value to customers through digitalization, sustainability, versatile software solutions (both vertical and horizontal), a proactive approach to service based on the analysis of data collected from thousands of connected machines, as well as by investing in people - the group's employees, partners and customers.

Focus on the timber construction segment

One strategic direction highlighted at the conference was the focus on the sustainable timber construction segment. SCM has launched new dedicated machine models (Oikos XS, CLT sanding machines) and is counting on the collaboration with Randek (Sweden) to become a relevant player in this high potential niche.

Long-term partnership with customers

In essence, the SCM Group's message has been one of a long-term partnership with customers, going beyond the simple supplier-buyer relationship. From the continuous improvement of manufacturing technologies and services, through digital solutions that deliver value, to joint skills development projects (SCM Academy), everything is designed to support customer competitiveness and success, regardless of the economic climate.

A concrete example of this approach: the SCM booth at Xylexpo was built entirely with the solutions and know-how of one of the group's Italian customers - living proof of the results that can be achieved through close supplier-user collaboration.

In conclusion, SCM Group's strong presence and messages at Xylexpo 2024 are an expression of well-deserved leadership through innovation, passion and customer focus. With a clear strategy and impeccable execution, SCM is positioning itself as a benchmark and an essential partner for any company active in the woodworking industry.