GIOVANARDI: FOR 60 YEARS, EVERY DAY, WE THINK ABOUT THE FUTURE
In the 1970s, we were often labeled as mere traders, but in the subsequent years, we managed to change this perception, thanks in part to the support of our supplier partners, becoming specialized distributors of technical fabrics.
I joined the company back in 1978 with the goal of expanding our product range and geographic presence, always in line with the ideas of the founders (Anna, Giorgio, and Carlo senior).
We've experienced tragic moments, such as the sudden loss of our parents, Giorgio and Anna, in 1983, which left a significant personal and professional void that remains with us to this day.
I vividly remember the Sunday morning of February 5, 1983, when I went into my sister Daniela's room to tell her that our parents had passed away due to a gas leak. Since then, our bond became unbreakable, giving us the strength to overcome the difficult moments that life presents to everyone.
We didn't lose heart and honed a set of skills that led to the establishment of a dedicated research and development department for quality control of fabrics and the development of new products.
Over the years, I've met and worked with countless people: our suppliers and partners, our valued customers, and all our collaborators. I remember them all, even those who are no longer with us, and I want to thank them because I, and all of us, have learned something from each of them.
These may seem like commonplace words, but those who know me understand that they are not casually written. Human relationships come first in my work and in Daniela's work as well.
I take this opportunity to offer special thanks. A heartfelt thank you to my wife Nicoletta, who joined the company in 2000 and demonstrated all her human and organizational qualities, becoming a reference point for all collaborators.
Thanks to my children, who have learned to coexist with an older sister like the company, and I hope that one day they can actively participate in it. I close with a special thank you to my sister Daniela, who supported and, as they say, "put up with" me on this journey. Over the years, my sister has always shared my decisions and even my mistakes. I wish anyone who might have a business partner to have one like Daniela.
Carlo Giovanardi
My earliest childhood memories are intertwined with our parents' and our uncle's business activities. The office was located in our home, where we lived with our grandparents. What I once considered an inconvenience has turned out to be a privilege: who can say they grew up in close contact with their parents every day? The founding trio of the company was well-organized: our uncle handled purchasing and clients in Southern Italy. Our father was responsible for sales at the headquarters, while our mother managed the finances. Our parents also took care of clients in Central Italy, a region they loved deeply. I remember the car trips, green hills, seafood feasts, and a strong bond that continues to this day.
The arrival of my brother in the company was a revolution. Carlo has always been a volcano. Quiet and silent on the outside, but with a thousand ideas brewing inside. The tragic loss of our parents forcibly altered his plans and put him to the test as he had to step into the shoes of not one, but two company leaders. He managed this admirably with the support of our uncle and cousin.
After relocating to Germany to teach Italian, the call of the family business became irresistible. Together with my brother, we decided to transplant the Italian model to Germany. I set off without experience but with a great deal of enthusiasm. I learned on the job, calling my brother after every visit to a German client. Gradually, Giovanardi GmbH was born, which later merged into Giofex GmbH. It's been over twenty years since we've been operating abroad. Germany was followed by other locations.
We've learned a lot and built a great deal. For this opportunity, I would like to thank our partners, suppliers, customers for their trust, and our collaborators, without whom none of this would have been possible. My special thanks go to my brother and his family, who represent the heart of this vital organism, with the hope that our shared journey continues into the future.
Daniela Giovanardi