And Ambrogio Delachi, outgoing president of Xylexpo organiser Acimall, told TTJ he was 90% certain that another of the big names – Cefla, which makes finishing technology – would also be returning to Xylexpo.
This news immediately raises doubts whether rival Rimini-based show Technodomus can go ahead with its 2014 event without two of its main exhibitors.
News of Biesse’s return after missing the last two shows in 2012 and 2010 comes just a month after the company rejoined Acimall (the Italian woodworking machinery and tools manufacturers association).
There is no news yet from SCM, the other main Italian machinery producer that switched allegiance from Xylexpo to Technodomus.
"Negotiations are ongoing and we can say that Cefla is 90% likely to be back at Xylexpo," said Mr Delachi. "SCM is a bit more complex and they have not made a decision yet."
But a further boost was given to Acimall at its recent assembly when CMS Industries, a CNC machining centre manufacturer which is part of the SCM Group, gave its commitment to attend Xylexpo 2014. The commitment is also believed to include the Balestrini brand.
Acimall deputy manager Dario Corbetta said a reorganisation of Acimall had created the conditions for Biesse’s return and he was hopeful the other companies which had boycotted Xylexpo would follow.
"This would be a great sign of unity and share intent for the ‘made in Italy’ brand and undoubtedly a further contribution to the success of Italian woodworking technology around the world," he said.
Insiders at Acimall believe that the Biesse news could lead to the cancellation of Technodomus, but no statements have been forthcoming from the Rimini show.
Xylexpo will be held on May 13-17, 2014.
