Once again, this editorial focuses on the effects of an international crisis that continues to have a considerable impact even though, compared to previous years, the root causes have changed and are now of a geopolitical nature. A strong US dollar and several signs of a strong recovery in some foreign countries might lead one to think that Eurozone exports should be booming; that, however, was not, at least on our markets, the case. What’s hitting our exports are the troubles of the countries where in the last 10 years we have significantly increased our exports , we are creating major problems: the ongoing tensions in Ukraine, with consequent sanctions against Russia and the devaluation of the ruble, have practically frozen the market for us, markets that are crucial for our exports. The same goes for the North African nations: held in check by political and military tensions. However, the results achieved on the Italian market exceeded even our most optimistic expectations; for months now, Italy has shown clear signs of recovery, with excellent figures generating confidence in our nation’s future.
As always, we prefer to respond to difficulties with investment and innovation. Just now, in fact, we’re beginning to manufacture Sabo air springs at the new plant we opened in the city of Bursa, Turkey. Bursa is Turkey’s automotive capital and hosts plants belonging to key European manufacturers of both vehicles and components. The production of our group of air springs will allow us to increase our presence , with this product , in international markets and be more independent and responsive in strategic decisions. The new plant in Turkey will talk extensively of the next issue of Roberto Nuti News .
In this issue of our Roberto Nuti News we’ll also be talking about the fairs we participated in during the early part of the year, the excellent results achieved by the Mupo brand during the first few months in the motorcycle championships plus some important news from Sabo-Hema, in India. In short, while we’re fairly confident that international tensions will eventually recede and be replaced by stability, we certainly have no intention of sitting here and doing nothing! To all of our readers all over the world we say this: we hope the summer now getting under way will be a prelude to a new, lasting season of peace and prosperity.
Massimo Nuti