The hardware and industrial supply sector reaches 481 million euros in turnover in 2024, the highest figure in its history

The companies in the ESKUIN Hardware and Industrial Supplies Cluster, made up, among others, of manufacturers of hand tools and locksmiths, achieved a turnover of 481 million euros at the end of 2024, which represents a growth of 5.7% compared to 2023.

‘Despite the uncertain start to the year, 2024 was a good year in terms of turnover. During the first few months, sales remained stable, but from the second half of the year onwards we noticed a greater dynamism in the markets, especially internationally, which has allowed us to beat our record turnover figure for the third consecutive year’, says Pablo Izeta, President of ESKUIN.

Sales in the domestic market grew by 1.6%, reaching 226 million euros. For their part, exports recorded an even more notable increase, with a rise of 9.6% to 254 million euros.

In the analysis by client sectors within the national market, the industrial sector – which represents 47% of sales – has experienced the greatest growth, with an increase of 2.85% over the previous year. Construction, which accounts for 45% of the total, has also shown a positive evolution, although more moderate, with an increase of 0.6%. On the other hand, the agricultural sector, the third destination with a share of 7%, has remained practically stable, registering a slight increase of 0.1% compared to the previous year.

The distribution of international sales follows the trend of recent years: the European Union continues to be the main export market, accounting for 75% of the total – of which 2% was Eastern Europe – followed by America with 12%, the Middle East with 5%, Africa with 4%, Eastern Europe with 2%, and Asia and Oceania with 2%.

As for the main export destinations in 2024, France topped the list with 10% of total foreign sales, followed by Portugal with 8%, the United States with 6%, and Germany with 5%.

The sector maintains great stability in employment with a figure of close to 1,800 people employed, repeating the figure of recent years.