Veronafiere signs strategic agreement with ITABIA for the wood-energy supply chain
Veronafiere is strengthening its strategic position in the bioenergy and forest mechanisation sector through a major collaboration agreement signed between Progetto Fuoco, the trade fair brand owned by Veronafiere, and ITABIA (Italian Biomass Association). This partnership aims to create an integrated system of events dedicated to the wood-energy supply chain, providing companies with coordinated long-term planning and support in accessing international markets.
The agreement will bring together leading events for the sector, in Italy and abroad, to be held in alternating years. On one side is Progetto Fuoco, organised by Veronafiere and internationally recognised as the leading exhibition for biomass heating and wood energy. On the other is FUTA Expo, the biennial event organised by ITABIA in Barberino di Mugello, dedicated to machinery, equipment and technological systems for the wood bioeconomy and sustainable forest management.
The collaboration will begin with the sector’s next two major events. The first milestone will be Progetto Fuoco Poland, taking place from 26 to 29 January 2027 within the renowned BUDMA trade fair in Poznań. The event will provide companies with access to the dynamic Central and Northern European market, reaching more than 26,000 professional visitors from 41 countries. In 2028, the focus will return to Verona with the next edition of Progetto Fuoco, scheduled from 23 to 26 February 2028, further consolidating the exhibition’s role as the international benchmark for technological innovation and global industry trends.
Federico Bricolo, president of Veronafiere
«Through this partnership, Progetto Fuoco further strengthens its role as the leading platform for the entire wood-energy supply chain, from the forest to the fireplace,” said Federico Bricolo, President of Veronafiere. As our international expansion continues, including with the event in Poland, our focus on technology and innovation becomes even broader and more comprehensive. Our goal is not only to promote excellence in next-generation domestic heating appliances and large-scale industrial systems, but also to shine a spotlight on the entire industrial segment, highlighting advanced machinery for primary wood processing and technologies for producing biomass for energy applications.»
Vito Pignatelli, president of ITABIA
“On behalf of myself and the entire ITABIA Board, said Vito Pignatelli, President of ITABIA, our collaboration with Progetto Fuoco will provide a further opportunity to demonstrate the importance of the biomass and bioenergy system through a supply-chain approach, from forest management to the generation of electricity.»
The agreement goes beyond commercial cooperation and is also aimed at promoting the economic, social and environmental sustainability of primary production. The use of Italian forest biomass plays a key role in supporting land management policies and strengthening energy sovereignty. With the contribution of experts from CNR IBE (Institute for BioEconomy), the partnership will enhance the “Progetto Bosco” section within Progetto Fuoco, showcasing the entire primary wood fuel processing supply chain. The initiative’s scientific value will be ensured through the direct involvement of ITABIA, the independent non-profit association that has been supporting public and private stakeholders since 1985 in developing projects that maximise positive environmental and economic impacts.