Confindustria Varese: Paciaroni reappointed to lead Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism

Context

TL;DR

• Roberto Paciaroni reappointed as president of Confindustria Varese's Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism Group for 2026.
• Group oversees 78 companies employing 9,532 workers, 13% of Varese's workforce.
• 72% of Italian companies not using AI in logistics; 58% plan pilot projects within 24 months.
• Group plays strategic role for Ticino cross-border workers, impacting commuting and economic competitiveness.

Key facts

• President: Roberto Paciaroni
• Sector Group: Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism
• Companies: 78
• Workers: 9,532
• AI Usage: 8% of Italian companies have implemented AI solutions
• AI Investment: 58% of Italian companies plan pilot projects within 24 months
• Cross-border Workers: Approximately 60,000 daily commuters between Ticino and Lombardy
• Local Production: Over €1.2 billion

Roberto Paciaroni, CEO of Hupac Spa, has been reappointed as president of the Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism Sector Group at Confindustria Varese during the 2026 General Assembly of the association’s 11 sectors. The role, previously held in the last term, has been extended for a new mandate that will oversee 78 companies employing 9,532 workers, representing 7.4% of the member companies and 13% of the workforce in the Varese association.

Alongside Paciaroni, Angelika Fischer (So.ge.ma Spa) has been reappointed as vice president, and Amadeo Fontana (Co-bit Conglomerati Bituminosi Spa) as Small Industry delegate. The Group plays a strategic role for the territory, directly impacting economic competitiveness, market accessibility, and the attractiveness of border areas between Lombardy and Ticino. Its activities cover three distinct but interconnected areas: Infrastructure (airports, rail and road networks, telecommunications, and construction), Transport (airlines, rail and road transport, logistics), and Tourism (hotels and hospitality).

The 2026 General Assembly saw the participation of Fabrizio Dallari, Director of the Logistics and Supply Chain Center at LIUC University, and Nicolò Trifone, PhD researcher and advisor at the same university. The central theme of the meeting was 'The logistics of the future: between automation, digitalization and AI,' with a focus on challenges and opportunities for local businesses. According to the analyses presented, 72% of Italian companies still do not use Artificial Intelligence in logistics and supply chain operations, while 20% are in the testing phase, and only 8% have implemented operational solutions. Projections for the next 24 months indicate an acceleration in investments: 58% of Italian companies plan to launch pilot projects in this field.

📊 Key figures on AI in logistics - 72% of Italian companies do not use AI in logistics - 20% are testing AI solutions - 8% have fully implemented AI systems - 58% plan pilot projects within 24 months

The role of Confindustria Varese in the cross-border context

The Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism Group at Confindustria Varese also holds a key position for Ticino cross-border workers. Malpensa, as an intermodal hub, is a critical infrastructure for commuting between the Canton of Ticino and the Province of Varese. Paciaroni’s reappointment as Group president thus carries strategic significance for the approximately 60,000 cross-border workers who cross the Italian-Swiss border daily, often using airports, roads, and railways managed by member companies.

The Group collaborates with organizational partners such as Acomea (investment management), Umana Agenzia per il Lavoro (employment agency), and Locauto (vehicle rental), all actively supporting companies in the sector. The 2026 General Assembly of Confindustria Varese is scheduled for Monday, June 15, with the program and venue to be announced in the coming days.

Operational details

The reappointment of Roberto Paciaroni as President of the Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism Group at Confindustria Varese opens up concrete prospects for Ticino cross-border workers, particularly in terms of optimizing transport infrastructure and digitalizing logistics processes. The sector, which employs over 9,500 people across Lombardy and Ticino, serves as a key link between the two regions, with direct implications for commuting, market accessibility, and economic attractiveness.

A look at the numbers: impact on the territory

The Group's 78 companies generate significant added value for the local economy. According to data presented during the General Assembly, the sector contributes over €1.2 billion to local production, with an employment impact exceeding 9,500 workers. For Ticino cross-border workers, this means:

• Improved access to logistics services: Malpensa and the railway hubs managed by associated companies represent critical nodes for those working between Ticino and Lombardy.
• Employment opportunities: The Group's companies are among the leading employers for Ticino residents seeking jobs in Lombardy, particularly in the transport and logistics sectors.
• Infrastructure development: The digitalization and automation of processes could reduce waiting times at border crossings like Brogeda or Gaggiolo, which are already under pressure due to commuter traffic.

📊 Artificial Intelligence: a challenge for cross-border workers

The central theme of the 2026 General Assembly was the impact of Artificial Intelligence on logistics. According to research by LIUC University, only 8% of Italian companies have already implemented AI solutions, while 58% plan to invest in the next 24 months. For cross-border workers, this could translate into:

• Reduced waiting times: Intelligent logistics flow management systems could optimize transport and reduce queues at border crossings.
• Improved services: Automation could expedite customs and inspection procedures, streamlining processes for those crossing the border daily.
• New skills required: The shortage of professionals specialized in AI is a hurdle, but also an opportunity for cross-border workers with digital skills to enter growing sectors.

⚠️ Comparison with the previous situation

In 2024, the Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism Group of Confindustria Varese comprised 72 companies with 8,900 employees. Over two years, the number of companies has grown by 8.3% and employment by 7.1%, reflecting an expansion trend in the sector. However, digitalization remains a weak point: in 2024, only 5% of companies used AI solutions, while today the figure has risen to 8%, though the path ahead is still long.

For cross-border workers, the main difference compared to the past lies in the greater focus on digital infrastructure, which could enhance daily quality of life. However, there is a risk that the technological transition may proceed too slowly, leaving behind those who rely daily on the border.

Prospects for the coming months

The Confindustria Varese General Assembly on June 15, 2026, will outline the Group's future strategies. Key priorities include:

• Increased investment in digitalization, with a focus on automation and AI.
• Development of synergies between Italian and Swiss companies to optimize cross-border transport.
• Training to bridge the gap in specialized digital logistics roles.

For Ticino cross-border workers, these developments could mean tangible improvements in the next 12-24 months, but will depend on companies' ability to accelerate the technological transition.

Recommended tools

For an updated estimate, use the net salary calculator and the CHF-EUR exchange comparator.

Key points

For cross-border workers from Ticino who cross the border into Lombardy every day, the reappointment of Roberto Paciaroni as President of the Infrastructure, Transport, and Tourism Group at Confindustria Varese represents a signal of continuity, but also an opportunity to demand concrete actions in support of cross-border mobility. Here’s what you can do today to prepare for the changes ahead.

Check your digital skills

If you work in transport, logistics, or construction, digitalisation will become increasingly central. According to data presented during the Assembly, 58% of Italian companies plan to invest in AI over the next 24 months. For cross-border workers, this means:

• Updating your professional profile: Platforms like LinkedIn or courses offered by SUPSI/USI can help you develop skills in automation and data management.
• Keeping an eye on training opportunities: The Canton of Ticino and the Province of Varese offer refresher courses in collaboration with local universities. Regularly check the websites of SUPSI and Università dell’Insubria for updated offerings.
• Evaluating certification paths: Some companies in the Group may require professionals with specific skills in AI or digital transport management. Check if your employer offers internal training programmes.

Optimise your commuting time

Transport infrastructure between Ticino and Lombardy is under increasing pressure. To reduce waiting times at border crossings, you can:

• Use cross-border mobility apps: Platforms like Moovit or Google Maps show the most efficient routes, including any delays or queues at border crossings.
• Plan your schedule: Avoid peak hours (7:00–9:00 and 17:00–19:00) to reduce waiting times. If possible, consider reverse commuting solutions, taking advantage of direct rail links between Ticino and Lombardy.
• Report issues: If you experience recurring problems at border crossings (Brogeda, Gaggiolo, Ponte Tresa), you can report the situation to the DFE Ticino or USTAT, which monitor cross-border flows.

Prepare for regulatory changes

The Infrastructure, Transport, and Tourism Group at Confindustria Varese works closely with local institutions to update regulations governing transport and logistics. Possible upcoming changes include:

• Updates on the health tax: If you are a cross-border worker and resident in Ticino, keep an eye on official communications from the Department of Finance and Economics for any changes to rates or payment procedures.
• New rules for goods transport: Companies in the Group may need to adapt to new EU or Swiss transport regulations. If you work in the sector, check with your employer about any compliance requirements.
• Digitalisation of documents: Some customs procedures may be automated. Make sure you have updated digital documents (driver’s licence, car insurance, work permit) to avoid delays.

Useful tools for cross-border workers

To better manage your work and tax situation, here are some tools available on the Frontaliere Ticino website that may be useful:

📊 Net salary calculator: Check how your salary translates into your payslip, taking into account tax differences between Ticino and Lombardy.

💡 Cost of living comparison: Assess whether your salary covers daily expenses in Ticino or if it makes sense to move to Lombardy.

⚠️ Border crossing map: Find the fastest and most up-to-date routes between Ticino and Lombardy, with real-time traffic information.

🏥 Health insurance: If you are a cross-border worker, check whether you are covered by your Swiss insurance or if you need to take out an Italian policy.

What to watch in the coming months

The Confindustria Varese General Assembly on 15 June 2026 could bring news on:

1. Infrastructure investments: New projects for Malpensa, railways, or roads that could improve your commute. 2. Professional training: Specific courses for cross-border workers in transport and logistics. 3. Taxes and benefits: Possible changes to rates or procedures for cross-border workers.

To stay updated, subscribe to the Frontaliere Ticino newsletter or follow us on social media for real-time news. If you have specific questions, you can contact us via the contact form on the website or email [email protected].

Source: varesenews.it

Article 1(237–238) of Italian Law No. 213/2023 does not apply indiscriminately to all cross-border workers. It covers: (a) Italian residents who work and stay in Switzerland and use the Italian SSN; (b) frontier workers under Article 9(1) of the Italy–Switzerland Agreement whose income is taxable only in Switzerland and who exercised the legal right to choose health insurance; and (c) dependants of those two categories. Paragraph 238 sets a progressive 3–6% share of net Swiss salary, with a €30 minimum and an ordinary €200 maximum for each month worked from 2024. The cap may be doubled in cases of omitted payment or omitted communication specified in Article 1(100) of Law No. 207/2024. The Region of residence sets the rates and procedure each year.