Marche economy shows stability despite manufacturing decline

As of June 30, 2026, the productive fabric of the Marche region in Italy has shown numerical stability, despite significant structural shifts. According to a study by Confartigianato Imprese Marche, there are 131,017 active businesses, a negligible decrease of only seven compared to the same period in 2025.

Giorgio Menichelli, Secretary General for Macerata-Ascoli Piceno-Fermo, noted that this stability demonstrates resilience amidst economic slowdowns, rising costs, and credit access difficulties. However, the data reveals a profound transformation as traditional sectors shrink while advanced services, real estate, energy, and consultancy grow.

The manufacturing sector, a historical pillar of the regional economy, has seen a decline of 1.8%, dropping to 15,458 units. Significant losses were recorded in the fashion system, including leather goods and footwear (-5.0%), clothing (-3.4%), furniture (-2.1%), and other transport means (-6.2%). The footwear district spanning Fermo and Macerata is particularly affected, with a contraction of over 125 businesses in leather and related product manufacturing due to international competition.