Speck Alto Adige PGI experienced a robust performance in 2024, with certified production rising 12.8% and export sales accounting for 32.7% of total output. Germany, the United States, and France remained the primary export destinations, while in Italy, the premium smoked delicacy reinforced its position as one of the country’s top-exported cured meats. Sales volumes climbed 3.4% year-on-year.
According to the Consortium for the Protection of Speck Alto Adige PGI, the increasing popularity of pre-sliced speck—up 7.3% from 2023—underlines the product’s appeal as a high-quality and convenient option. The television campaign launched in October 2024, the first in two decades, promoted speck as a nutritious, versatile choice, catering to families and health-conscious consumers.
COMMITMENT TO EXCELLENCE AND MARKET EXPANSION
“The strong performance in 2024 reflects our ongoing commitment to certified quality,” said Paul Recla, President of the Consortium. “The expansion into international markets and increased production reaffirm Speck Alto Adige PGI’s status as a benchmark for excellence. Through technological advancements, stringent quality controls, and sustained investment, we are securing long-term growth and consumer trust.”
PRODUCTION TRENDS AND ECONOMIC IMPACT
In 2024, 2,815,390 speck hams were certified PGI, representing 42.6% of total production—a 12.8% increase on the previous year. The annual production of approximately 2.8 million speck hams generates an estimated market value of €160–170 million.
SPECK ALTO ADIGE PGI LEADING EXPORTS IN ITALIAN CURED MEATS
Speck Alto Adige PGI maintains strong international demand, with exports accounting for 32.7% of total output. Germany remains the largest market, absorbing 23.2% of production, followed by the United States (4.75%), where demand has surged in recent years. Other key markets include France (2%), Switzerland (0.9%), and Austria (0.6%). Distribution extends to over 20 additional countries, including Belgium, Slovenia, Sweden, the Netherlands, and Canada. After the pandemic-related challenges of 2020 and 2021, exports rebounded sharply in 2024.
SURGING DEMAND FOR PRE-SLICED FORMATS
The pre-sliced segment continued its upward trajectory in 2024, with total production reaching 46,146,223 packs—an increase of 7.3% from the previous year. The 100-gram pack remains the dominant format. Pre-sliced products now account for 47% of total PGI-certified production, marking further expansion from 2023 levels.
QUALITY ASSURANCE, BRAND PROTECTION, AND DIGITAL OVERSIGHT
Independent certification body, Ifcq Certificazione conducts rigorous quality controls, ensuring compliance from raw material selection to finished product. In 2024, the Consortium launched a new certification website in partnership with IT service provider Beantech, enhancing quality management processes.
Market surveillance remains crucial in maintaining product integrity and proper use of the protected designation. Last year, 1,184 retail outlets in Italy and 137 in Germany and Switzerland were inspected, alongside 200 online platforms, to monitor the correct use of the “Speck Alto Adige” name. The Consortium also intensified its global trademark monitoring efforts for “Speck,” “Alto Adige,” and “Südtirol,” addressing non-compliant usage. Additionally, the PGI trademark renewal was extended for another ten years, ensuring continued protection across the EU and the UK.