24 February 2022: a date we will not forget

The extraordinary Assemblies of FEDERTEC and FNDI approve the merger of FNDI into FEDERTEC; the Russian military forces carry out a so-called ‘special operation’ in Ukraine. Extraordinary and special emotionally evoke a positive event… but this is not always the case. The merger of FNDI into FEDERTEC is certainly a step towards bringing people and companies closer. Strongly desired by President Fausto Villa, supported by Mauro Rizzolo and Domenico Di Monte as FEDERTEC spokesmen, it found a shared vision in the FNDI board of directors. The Italian association scene has historically been characterised by fragmentation and subdivision into sub-categories and sub-groups, often resulting from individualism and opposition rather than from a logic of synergy, under the illusion that proving you don’t need others is a test of strength. On the contrary, strength lies in our will and ability to act within an ecosystem where everyone is called upon to play their part: within an association, a supply chain and any other global landscape. The ‘special operation’ launched on 24 February does not evoke anything positive. We reject this apparent show of strength, which takes the world back to historical visions that we thought were outdated, and which carries with it, whatever the outcome, serious economic and social consequences. At the level of entrepreneurs and associations, this new scenario, after the initial destabilising impact, motivates us to work harder so that the merger we have completed can be an opportunity for synergies and growth for all FEDERTEC members. Industrial distribution companies are different in size and operation from production companies. Each manufacturing company has its own distribution network and each distributor or system integrator has its own basket of suppliers. We sign agreements on a daily basis, but it is only in an association environment that management and communication issues can be of mutual benefit. Putting economic interests aside, we need to analyse and compare the respective points of view, even opposing ones, in order to plan a strategy that produces a supply chain efficiency to the benefit of the final service/product for us and our common customers. FNDI members will put forth proposals for joint work and will be ready to welcome what emerges from FEDERTEC manufacturing companies, in the common interest. The creative skills and motivation of Italian entrepreneurs have always been the driving force for finding new energy in the face of challenges. I am confident that FEDERTEC members can be the incubator of change. Let’s identify our common goals and remove the obstacles in order to be able to achieve them.