Presentation and Key Figures

The mechanical engineering and metallurgy industries play a key role in Midi-Pyrenees, both in economics terms (nearly 2,500 establishments an d 26,000 jobs), with an impact comparable to that of agribusiness, and in terms of its contribution to balanced territorial development, given that these establishments are located throughout the eight Departments of Midi-Pyrenees (see map below).

We can distinguish two sectors:

• Metallurgy and metal processing :  For the most part this sector concerns general mechanical engineering, metal processing and finishing, fasteners, nuts and bolts, first aluminium transformation, forge, light metal foundry, blanking and stamping... Positioning in these sectors has enabled Metallurgy to benefit from growth in aeronautics and space construction.
  
  This industry is comprised of about 1,098 establishments with 13,450 employees.
  Source: INSEE - TEMP 2005

• Mechanical Equipments : this sector concentrates on boiler making, elaboration and construction of structural elements and various metal products, machine tool and agricultural material enabling it to benefit from the dynamic expansion of aeronautics and building/public works. This range of expertise has helped the sector to withstand the reorganization and consolidations in the defense sector (GIAT) which has been the main prime contractor for these business.
  
  This industry is comprised of about 1,389 establishmentsand 12,780 employees.
  Source: INSEE - TEMP 2005