partnership autumn 2012
DESCRIPTION
The Italian Chamber of Commerce and Industry for the UKTRANSCRIPT
Issue 201
Autumn 2012
MEET: An interview withFrancesca Schiavone
MADE IN ITALY: What does it mean to today’s consumer?
Italian Chamber of Commerce and Industry for the UK
ItalyUK
ANNUAL CONFERENCEINVESTING IN A BETTER FUTURE: Technological, Social and Geo-economic Challenges
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69 Buchanan Street, Glasgow G1 3HL | t: 0845 900 1311
£89.99SPECIAL OFFER
£249.99RRP
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www.megawhite.co.uk [email protected]*Megawhite will beat any Groupon Megawhite offer. Call to book.
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Cheaper than Groupon - Guaranteed!*
4-10 Shade Improvement
No Structure or Enamel Damage
100% Pain Free, No Sensitivity
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69 Buchanan Street, Glasgow G1 3HL | t: 0845 900 1311
£89.99SPECIAL OFFER
£249.99RRP
20MINExpress Whitening
20 Min
www.megawhite.co.uk [email protected]*Megawhite will beat any Groupon Megawhite offer. Call to book.
Provided By Favero Dental Clinic
Cheaper than Groupon - Guaranteed!
No Structure or Enamel Damage
100% Pain Free, No Sensitivity
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£89.99
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£249.99
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Up to 12 Shade Improvement
*
* cheaper than groupon guarantee relates to megawhite®
featured price not competitors
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020 7323 1960
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Dear Members
Our Benefactor Members
Helen Girgenti Secretary General
Welcome to our Autumn edition of “Italy-UK Partnership” which has been restyled and is now available to read digitally online. We hope that you will like its fresh new approach and modern appearance.
After a Summer dominated by sporting events it is perhaps fitting that we have included an interview with one of Italy’s leading sports personalities , Francesca Schiavone who has been part of the professional tennis circuit for over a decade. A testimony of what can be achieved through inspiration and hard work. Just as the dust settles on the London 2012 Games we look forward to seeing if the euphoria and the interest received in this country will continue.
On the business front we have witnessed growth in our bilateral services and as we move into the latter part of the year the trend is forecast to continue.
Our Autumn events calendar will be dominated by our Annual Conference
which this year moves to the Grade II listed Church House situated in the heart of Westminster.
We are pleased to announce that Sergio Marchionne, CEO FIAT SpA will be the keynote speaker and we very much hope to see you there.
In the meantime, please do not hesitate to contact our Chamber if there is anything that we can do for you or if you would like to be part of this new venture by placing an advert or advertorial. Likewise we are also available if you would like information on membership and for our existing members if you would like to take advantage of your membership benefits we are always happy to hear from you.
Sincerely,Helen Girgenti
Content
The Italian Chamber of Commerce and Industry for the UK
The Italian Chamber of Commerce & Industry for the UK is an independent, non-profit making networking organisation and has been dedicated to its members since 1886. Today, the Chamber has around 400 members. Representing not only Italian companies but also British and European companies, interested in strengthening their ties with Italy or expanding to a new market. The Italian Chamber hosts many events for its members and the Italian community here in the UK.
For more information about the Chamber and Membership, please see www.italchamind.eu or contact the Secretariat on telephone 0044 (0)207 495 8191 or by email to [email protected] our online networks today on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.com/italianchamUK
Cover Photo by James Burns, Raw [email protected]
Design by Digital Whitewww.digital-white.com
Eva Lamorgese Project Manager
Helen Girgenti Secretary General
Luigi G.J Fontana Project Manager
Melody Dadon Deputy Secretary General
Genny Cecchini Members Relations & Events Officer
Aaron Clark Commercial Department - Assistant
Francesca Bellocchi Cross Borders Investment
Martina Missiato Scottish Branch Manager
Monika RybaczykProject Coordinator - Trade Fairs
JOIN THE ICCIUK
To request a membership application form and company brochure please visitwww.italchamind.eu
04 Partnership
7 The Annual Conference Investing in a better future: Technological, Social and Geo- economic challenges
10 Vanessa Brady: Design Pioneer We speak to the President of SBID, the Society of British Interior Design, about her contributions to one of Britain’s most exciting industries
12 Francesca Schiavone: ‘I love what I do, my family and my profession”
The first lady of Italian tennis shares her passion for the game
14 ‘Made in Italy’ – What does it mean to today’s consumer?
Monika Rybaczyk investigates the strength of Italy’s classic brand
16 Matteo Garrone’s trip into the world of ‘Il Grande Fratello’
The director of ‘Gomorrah’ returns with his new film, ‘Reality’
17 AMO Opera! Verona’s new museum, Arena Museo Opera, opens its doors for the first time
18 The Ultimate Italian restaurant: Le Tentazioni
Just a short walk from the splendour of Tower Bridge, a quiet revolution is taking place in Bermondsey, the new foodie destination of choice
20 An International Lifestyle A candid insight into the UK’s biggest and best attended overseas property exhibition, A Place In The Sun Live
21 Hello sunshine!Luigi Fontana explains why the prospects for Britain’s solar energy market are anything but gloomy
CB0008 Italian Chamber Ad Amend AW OL.indd 1 16/7/12 10:08:25
Chamber
The President’s Perception – In a difficult World nobody is perfect
We often have referred to the UK as having demonstrated efficiency and strength of tradition especially with the recent events to celebrate 60 years of the reign of Queen Elizabeth II as well as the organisation of the Olympics.
However, recently we have witnessed a scandal involving one of the most important British banks which threatens to spread and disrupt the entire City. To resolve a dispute with the British and American authorities Barclays Bank was ordered to pay £290 million and in the aftermath of the affair both the Chairman Marcus Agius and CEO Bob Diamond resigned.
The City of London, which has been the world’s financial centre for decades, finds itself amidst a scandal that could severely impact global finance, after already being severely damaged by the crisis that began in 2008.
The ongoing investigation does not involve any Italian bank this fact makes us think about how sometimes, as Italy and as Italians, we whip ourselves in order to explain the behaviour of our politicians and business leaders.
In light of the facts, but we should pause to reflect on the actions of others, whom we have seen as indisputable examples of integrity and honesty.
You can almost see a contradiction; the integrity of the British financial system hit by an unprecedented scandal that exposes misconduct very much entrenched in a system now shaken at every level.
The thoughts that naturally arise at this time imply that “not all that glitters is gold” and Italy is right to look at the positive examples of other countries, but there is no need to flagellate ourselves either.
SEPTEMBER
06 MACEFInternational Home Show
Macef has established itself since 1964 as one of the leading homeware, giftware and accessories shows globally. New feature of the show will be AbitaMi lab: true laboratories showcasing examples of product innovation.
Time: 6-9 September from 9:30am to 6:30pmPrice: €30 at the doorVenue: FieraMilano, Strada Statale del Sempione, 28 - 20017 Rho, Milan
12 International Wine & Chat
Join us at Chinawhite for our next International Wine & Chat.Combined with the Chambers of France, Spain, Austria, Argentina and Mexico this event offers members and guests the opportunity to taste fine wines from Europe and Latin America. Italy will be represented by the Donnachiara Winery.
Time: 18:00pm to 20:00pmPrice: £36 Members; £48 Non-MembersVenue: Chinawhite 4 Winsley Street, London W1W 8HF
26 MARMOMACC
Marmomacc is celebrating its 47th edition, as one of the leading international events in the stone and design sector. This is an essential appointment for all producers, designers and decision makers seeking success in an increasingly specialist and competitive context.
Time: 26-29 September from 9:30am to 18:00pmPrice: €18 at the door; €10 online Venue: Quartiere fieristico Verona, Viale del Lavoro 8, Verona
28 A PLACE IN THE SUN LIVE
UK’s no.1 exhibition on properties abroad will feature the Italian Pavilion, sponsored by property search portal Gate-Away.com. The official exhibition of the hit Channel 4 television series, A Place in the Sun Live attracts thousands of serious overseas property hunters every spring and autumn.
Time: 28-30 September from 10:00am to 17:00pmPrice: £10 Adult; £6 Senior CitizenVenue: NEC, Birmingham, B40 1NT
Season Events
OCTOBER
11 Club di Londra Annual Conference Dinner
The traditional Club di Londra dinner in honour of participants to the Annual Conference held in the dining rooms of the House of Commons overlooking the Thames. Attendance is limited to those registered to attend the conference.
Time: 19:30pm to 20:00pmPrice: Contact [email protected]: The House of Commons, Westminster
12 The Annual Conference INVESTING IN A BETTER FUTURE: Technological, Social and Geo-economic Challenges
The Chamber’s most important event is its Annual Conference first held in 1981. It was originally scheduled just prior to the International Monetary Fund as an informal get together for participants en route from Italy to Washington or one of the other overseas venues. Over the years it has became a significant event in its own right and an obligatory date on the calendar of anyone dealing with Italy and the UK.
Attendees include senior bankers, economists, lawyers and businessmen and women from Italy and the UK involved in a wide spectrum of business activities between the two countries.Now in its 34th year the 2012 edition will be held at the unique Church House venue, located adjacent to Westminster Abbey on Friday 12th October with the title “INVESTING IN A BETTER FUTURE: Technological, Social and Geo-economic Challenges”. We are pleased to announce that Sergio Marchionne, CEO.FIAT SpA will be the keynote speaker.
For further details including how to register please visit www.italchamind.eu
Time: 09:00am to 15:00pmPrice: Contact [email protected] Venue: The Church House, Westminster, London
Venice Film Festival 2012
The world’s oldest film festival, now in its 69th edition, will be full of surprises this year after undergoing a programming and infrastructure revolution. Its new artistic director Alberto Barbera has redesigned the format of the festival by limiting the number of films in each category and eliminating some sections altogether. The aim is to allow each film more attention and space for repeated screenings.
To celebrate the festival’s 80th anniversary, the organisers have prepared a retrospective of the 10 rarest films previously shown in Venice, some with only one existing copy!
Among the special events will also be the presentation of a Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement to the distinguished Italian director Francesco Rosi, famous for his cinematic depiction of ‘Christ stopped at Eboli’.
Rumored competitors for the Golden Lion are: Steven Spielberg’s ‘Lincoln’, Thomas Hooper’s ‘Les Misérables’ and Quentin Tarantino’s anticipated ‘Django Unchained’.
Met Opera Live in HD at the Barbican
Starting in mid October, the Met Opera Live in HD returns to the Barbican for the 2012-13 season.
This fantastic project brings twelve breathtaking operas to London, transmitted live in HD from the Metropolitan Opera House in New York.
Productions of Wagner, Mozart and Verdi among others will be making their way across the Atlantic to provide spectators with all the vivacity of the original American performances, along with live interviews with cast, crew and production teams.
Of particular interest will be Verdi’s magnificent Aida, aired at 6pm, Saturday the 15th of December.Principal Conductor Fabio Luisi will conduct the work for the first time at the Met, with a cast led by the young Ukrainian soprano Liudmyla Monastyrska, acclaimed in Europe for her performances in the demanding title role. Mezzo-soprano Olga Boradina will make her first Live in HD appearance as Amneris.
For more information please visit www.barbican.org.uk/music
Marchio Ospitalitá Italiana 2012
The Italian Chamber of Commerce for the United Kingdom is pleased to announce that six new UK restaurants have been awarded the Marchio Ospitalitá Italiana Seal of Quality.
The “Marchio Ospitalità Italiana” initiative awards excellent Italian restaurants all over the world with formal recognition. The project was conceived by Unioncamere in collaboration with FIPE – Federazione Italiana Pubblici Esercizi – and with the support of I.S.NA.R.T. – Istituto Nazionale Ricerche Turistiche. In order to obtain this prestigious award, restaurants must satisfy certain criteria, such as the use of DOP products, DOC wines, and other quality Italian products. To find out more, visit www.italchamind.eu.
The new UK-based restaurants awarded with the prize are as follows:
Arcadia (London)Bella Napoli (Glasgow)Calabria Cucina (Chesterfield)Campo de’ Fiori Ristorante (Bray, Co. Wicklow)Divino Enoteca (Edinburgh)Masaniello (London)
Congratulations from the Italian Chamber of Commerce!
News
Photo: Courtesy La Biennale di Venezia – ASAC Photo: Courtesy of The Metropolitan Opera Marchio Ospitalitá Italiana 2012
08 Partnership
Edison for sustainability in music
Edison, Europe’s oldest energy company and the Italian leader in this sector, has recently introduced Radio Edison – a mobile phone application promoting zero emissions.
The free app will be available for download online, allowing its users to share and listen to music. As part of ‘Change the Music’– the first Italian project focused on promoting environmentally sustainable music events – songs from 1200 participating artists will be on offer.
‘Edison - Change the Music’ has so far facilitated the debate on eco-sustainability, monitored the impact of music on the environment and promoted the reduction of carbon dioxide emissions of musical events such as the First Scala, Milano Jazzin ‘Festival and the Udine concert of Bon Jovi. Thanks to the new app, eco-sustainable music is now a real possibility for all smart phone owners.
Metamorphosis: Titian 2012 at The National Gallery
There’s still time to catch the fantastic multi-arts Titian exhibition at London’s National Gallery. Metamorphosis: Titian 2012 sees a range of contemporary artists – including choreographers, composers, dancers, poets and visual artists – respond to paintings by Renaissance master Titian. The exhibition includes reinterpretations of the Venetian’s masterpieces by three British artists - Chris Ofili, Conrad Shawcross and Mark Wallinger - who have created unique settings for use by the Royal Ballet in choreographic renditions of Titian’s work.
Qatar Investment Group acquires Valentino
London based private equity firm Permira has agreed to sell Italian fashion label Valentino to Mayhoola For Investments, an investment vehicle backed by a major private investor group from Qatar that owns stakes in luxury businesses such as LVMH, Tiffany and Harrods.
The agreement between Mayhoola and Red & Black, a company controlled by Permira Funds in partnership with the Marzotto family, was signed on the 11th of July and will see the Qatari fund spending around € 700 million. In 2007 Red & Black acquired control of Valentino Fashion Group, which included the label Hugo Boss, in a € 5.3 billion buyout.
Through the acquisition Mayhoola will also acquire Missoni whilst MCS Marlboro, previously owned by Valentino Fashion Group, will remain under the ownership of Red & Black, along with Hugo Boss.
News
Photo: Courtesy of The National Gallery
09 Partnership
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What is your professional background?
I started to practice in interior design in 1992. I was invited to partner a property investment company, it was my beginning and got me to London. After a few years travelling and working, in 2009 I decided to launch a destination for the design industry to share, mentor, promote and lead the direction of the industry, so that my own practice could continue without me, in the same way that fashion houses and manufacturers do. In that way, my business had a future as did my team. I converted my business to a profit-share. Its future in both design and construction is now back on track after a slow period in the past two years. By September we will be bigger in team size than pre-recession. Finally I am satisfied that I have created a future for the team members.
What is the mission of the Society of British Interior Design?Our mission is to set industry standards and to provide direction for our members.
We do this through education. We listen, protect and promote. The Society of British Interior Design (SBID) is a high-profile organization that represents the professional interests of members in Britain, in Brussels and around the world. It’s working together with the ECIA, NCIDQ, shared-interest organizations in trade, the industry and media to shape and influence policy decisions ensuring the interests of businesses and individuals are represented accurately.
Technology has permeated almost all of the spheres of everyday life – how does it influence interior design? Manufacturers invest hundreds of thousands of pounds in new products, it should also be noted that for every product brought to market, several will have been rejected. There is a trial and error cut in that process and this is frequently an unrecognized cost. Technology is changing the product specification process also, designers
must be aware of what they specify, it must be fit for purpose to perform correctly and, therefore, designers need to obtain the knowledge behind each product, only then will their advice be accurate.
What are the current trends in interior design in the UK?Quality and prosperity are key. I believe the recession has made people rethink their priorities, their needs and their disposition. It is a time to show less and to calm down over-display. We question value, and we are generally and slowly learning that ‘more’ doesn’t always mean better, happier or an improvement. We are, therefore, beginning to value antiques and craftsmanship again, the mix between old and new is now very evident and craftsmanship is being appreciated again as purchasers want to know more about what they are buying.
Article
Vanessa Brady is an award winning international interior designer and consultant specializing in contract hospitality and premium residential homes. Working on her own and within her company Architectural Interior Design, she is also the President of the Society of British Interior Design. Shortly before London Design Week, Vanessa talked to us about interior design and technology.
Vanessa Brady
Vanessa BradyDesigner Pioneer
10 Partnership
Advertorial
MBC Diamonds: London’s bespoke diamond expert
Monica Bortolin-Cossa gives us an insight into her premier jewellery business.
MBC Diamonds; Round brilliant cut diamond, 1.10 ct. F-VS2 GIA set with small diamonds of 0.16 ct.
11 Partnership
MBC Diamonds is an independent diamond dealer based in London. It is an accredited Member of the London Diamond Bourse and has access to all other diamond bourses around the world. The company’s managing director is Monica Bortolin-Cossa, who comes from two generations of diamond jewellery merchants. She has over 20 years of experience in the loose diamond and jewellery industry and is able to supply her demanding clientele with a vast array of diamonds, ranging from traditional white stones to specimens in much more exotic colours.
MBC Diamonds is specialised in bespoke diamond jewellery, creating unique and bespoke pieces which exude all the hallmarks of elegant, Made in Italy style. Diamonds are
sourced exclusively from suppliers compliant with the December 2000 UN Resolution on ‘Conflict-Free Diamonds’ and are officially certified by the GIA (Gemological Institute of America), the world’s foremost authority on diamonds, coloured stones and pearls.
The company is also specialised in selling loose diamonds as investments. Diamond investments represent approximately 1% of the diamond market and MBC Diamonds is capable of offering investors the unique opportunity to protect and improve their existing wealth by investing in assets that are tangible, portable and highly concentrated in value. In times of great economic uncertainty, investors have learnt that diamonds provide a reliable store of wealth.
Over the past 50 years, diamonds have increased in value by an annual rate of 7% - 10%. Continuing price rises are expected, as are those for gold, silver and other precious materials. Emerging markets will also bump up value, as countries like China and India continue to purchase diamonds as physical safeguards for their wealth and as hedges against economic uncertainty and market volatility. Given the huge increase in demand and imbalance in supply MBC Diamonds expects good returns in diamond investments.
For further information please contact Monica Bortolin-Cossa at: [email protected]
Francesca Schiavone is surely one of the best Italian players ever to have stepped onto a court. She has been playing professional tennis for fourteen years and, on a few occasions, has touched true greatness. She is tied with Adriano Panatto for the overall Italian ranking record after she moved to 4th place in the world in 2011.
Her new title was achieved through her majestic, grand slam victory over Samantha Stosur at Roland Garros in 2010 and her fourth round 2011 Australian Open win against Svetlana Kuznetsova, a gruelling four hour and forty four minute battle which broke the record for the tournament’s longest women’s tennis match. Francesca is defined by her competitive spirit and a voracious hunger for victory, always pushing herself to the limits of her capabilities. She is the Leonessa to her adoring fans, her ferocity on the court a potent reminder of who she is and what she has achieved. We caught up with the Olympian and Grand Slam winner at this year’s Wimbledon for a quick Q&A.
When did you first pick up a tennis racket?I was very small and it was my father’s wooden racket. I’d play with it as soon as I got outside, spending hours and hours hitting a ball against the wall of our garden.
Which players most inspired you growing up in Italy? I liked playing tennis, first and foremost. Up until a certain age I wasn’t really bothered about other players. Then I grew up a little and I became passionate about watching the game as well as playing it. I had two posters in my room: one of Steffi Graff, the other of Ivanisevic, but I must admit I was also mad about Andre Agassi and Jennifer Capriati.
What would you have been if not a professional tennis player?I’ve been asked that many times and honestly, I don’t really know. Knowing myself however I would have undoubtedly done something which combines competition and creativity.
Which tournament do you most enjoy playing?I love the red clay of Roland Garros. I’m also very fond of playing on Wimbledon grass, even if I’ve never managed to truly express myself on it. Last but not least is the Australian Open. The country is very close to my heart.
Any pre-match rituals?I’m not superstitious, I don’t believe in things like that. I can say however that before every game I like to check my rackets, arrange them and make sure they’re in peak condition. They’re the tools of my trade, they’re how I express myself.
The taste of victory: Francesca went on to win the 2010 French Open, beating Samantha Stosur to become the first Italian woman to win a Grand Slam
Francesca Schiavone: “I love my family, my friends, my profession”The first lady of Italian tennis shares her passion for the game.
Article
Words by Aaron Clark
12 Partnership
If you could play anyone, alive or dead, who would it be and why? I’d play a nice match with Martina Navratilova, one with Steffi Graff, another with Agassi and one with the great Roger Federer. Why is very simple… they’re all truly great athletes and people. I could only learn from them, not to mention how much fun it would be.
What are your dreams for the future?I hope for the continuation of excellence in my career and, when the time is right, a family. I would like to be a mother and enjoy life with my children. After that, who knows…
US Open, Australian Open or Wimbledon: which would you most like to win?Every Grand Slam has its own particular fascination and flavour. It’s a hard question to answer, but the Australian Open is perhaps the one I’d most like to win at the moment.
Can you describe yourself in a single sentence without using the word ‘tennis’?I’m an emotional person, sometimes a little too much. I love my family, my friends, my profession. I count myself lucky as I have the opportunity to express myself and do the job I like the most.
How did you celebrate winning the 2010 French Open?We had a lovely dinner in Paris and went dancing. However the most beautiful party was the day after, at my mum and dad’s house, once we’d got back from Paris. The whole village was there to celebrate with us, singing and waving
banners of every kind. It was very moving and a fantastic surprise. Everyone was there… my family, friends, people from my village… bellissimo!
21e Heathmans Road, Parsons Green, London, SW6 4TJ, Tel. +44 20 7731 6600
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What do you look for when choosing a good quality product? Undoubtedly craftsmanship, authenticity, quality materials and, to make things even more interesting, a story. When you finally find the best in all of these areas, what you end up with is most probably ‘Made in Italy’. It’s why this brand has become a guarantee that what you are buying is of the highest order. A bit like the ISO standard, ‘Made in Italy’ is reassuring. But it comes at a price. So how does the ‘Made in Italy’ brand manage in times of economic strife?
For decades the ‘Made in Italy’ label has been sought after by consumers all over the world. Italian producers of anything from sunglasses to furniture have built their reputations on its attention to detail, high quality materials and execution.With the expansion of globalization, countries such as China and India developed industries of mass produced goods. Not everyone could afford the real ‘Made In Italy’ product, and countries with cheap manufacturing stepped in to fill the gap, competitive not only through lower prices
but also through mimicry of style. However, something went horribly wrong when China went as far as reproducing Florence and Venice in the shape of a shopping mall filled with Italian monuments and named Florentia Village.
It is no secret that it has become ever more difficult to win over the consumer. Production costs are higher in Italy, with companies often facing difficulties that prevent them from maximising their performance potential. That is why, in times of crisis, some have decided to move their production outside of Italy, to other European countries or to Asia. In such cases, the issue of brand provenance becomes tricky. In 2010, Prada started its campaign ‘Made in ....’ which identified different collections based on the country of manufacture. The twist was that the clothes from each collection were made out of materials typical for that particular country: the ‘PRADA Made in Peru’ label accompanied garments made from Alpaca wool, for example. A rather creative way of approaching the delocalization of production.
Photo courtesy of Creative Commons from Fiammetta Bruni
‘Made in Italy’ - What does it mean to today’s consumer?
Feature
Monika Rybaczyk investigates the strength of Italy’s classic brand.
14 Partnership
Part of the ‘Made In Italy’ label is the luxury it represents and that is something cheaper versions produced elsewhere cannot imitate. Exclusive Italian brands such as Ferrari, Salvatore Ferragamo or Ermenegildo Zegna are recognizable all over the world as markers of the social status of those who can afford them. These companies will remain crisis-proof just as much as the fortunes of those lucky few buyers.
As for the rest of the Italian market, companies have dealt with the economic crisis in different ways. As previously mentioned, one way of keeping the business profitable is moving production abroad, where labour is cheaper; another is cutting down production in order to maintain or improve quality. Some major players were bought by foreign investors: take Pucci and Fendi, owned by French LVMH. Unfortunately, others did not survive the market turmoil, having to let go of their personnel or shut down completely. The crisis may have impaired the good name of the Italian economy, but the question is – has it also reduced the trust consumers put in ‘Made in Italy’ products? It would seem not. Italians are aware of the inherent and long-term value of this brand. It is what differentiates Italian goods from other high quality European products, such as those produced in Scandinavia. If the Chinese are cheaper, the Swedish are equally good in terms of quality. What keeps the Italians afloat is precisely the magic behind the design and authenticity of ‘Made in Italy’. Its future and
strength does not lie in the actual geographical location of production, but in keeping its positive connotations alive. ‘Made in Italy’ continues to stand for good quality, authentic products manufactured by family-run companies with a long tradition of craftsmanship. It is an invaluable asset in the times of political and economic instability.
Feature
Photo by Barilla
15 Partnership
We look to the future with optimism. Expertise, relationships and holistic approach are what our accountants and lawyers provide to our clients to support them along their development paths in order to take opportunities and manage complexities and difficulties appropriately.
Our clients’ needs are met by our three departments:
- TAX&LEGAL We provide domestic and multi-jurisdictional tax and legal advice services on commercial law, tax law, and litigation (including tax litigation).
- PRIVATE&FAMILY Individuals, families and their associated trusts are advised on key aspects of taxation and financial planning of their estates.
- BUSINESS&FINANCE Business clients find in our department a wide range of accounting services, and administrative support. Our professionals have a well-established experience in assisting clients during business restructuring deals (M&A), real estate transactions, and turnaround.
Belluzzo&Partners has been recognised by Legal 500, Chambers, World Tax, International Tax Review and Citywealth, and was ranked by STEP in the top five non-Anglo-Saxon Firms. Additionally, our professionals have contributed to legal and academic debate on numerous occasions, through articles, speeches and participation in study groups.
www.belluzzo.netFor more information please contact us on [email protected] Or call us on +44 (0) 207 004 2660
Culture
Photo by Eduardo Castaldo
Matteo Garrone’s trip into the world of ‘Il Grande Fratello’
We all remember Matteo Garrone’s critically acclaimed ‘Gomorrah’, the 2008 drama based on Roberto Saviano’s famous book about mafia-permeated daily life in Campania. After four years, Garrone is coming back to cinemas with a slightly lighter, but no less complex film – ‘Reality’. Having received the Grand Prix at Cannes this year, it is among the most eagerly anticipated films of 2012 according to an IMDB survey.
Expectations have certainly built up for Matteo Garrone’s latest production. ‘Gomorrah’ was the director’s first major success on an international scale. For an indie film with a difficult subject and shot in a local dialect it is not an easy task to make an impact on the US film market.
However, Garrone managed to do just that and, after receiving the Grand Prix at Cannes, ‘Gomorrah’ was nominated for an Oscar in the Best Foreign Film category. Even though it did not win, the raw story of violence and crime infiltrating all levels of life and all social groups in Naples has gained a lot of acclaim both in Italy
and abroad, bringing Garrone to the attention of film critics declaring him to be the new hope of Italian cinema reworking the Neorealist tradition.
Looking at Garrone’s body of work one soon realizes that an authentic portrayal of Italian contemporary society and its landscape lies at the very heart of his aesthetic. His career took off with the 2002 production ‘The Embalmer’, followed by ‘First Love’ shot a year later. Both productions explore dark themes of human obsessions and disturbed relationships. ‘Gomorrah’ follows this path by focusing on five dark stories chosen from the book by Roberto Saviano. It explores the drama of a life defined by the omnipresence of mafia, which the protagonists are unable to avoid.
It is a fate shared by Saviano, who since the publication of his book has been under the constant threat of death from the Camorra. Recent news reports Garrone accused of being involved with some of the local Mafiosi while shooting the film. If proved true, the epilogue
of ‘Gomorrah’ could take on a completely new meaning.
‘Reality’ is receiving a lot of attention from both the industry and the press after its successful debut at Cannes. The story revolves around Luciano, a fishmonger and crook from Naples, who decides to audition for Big Brother. After the try out, the protagonist becomes convinced that he is under observation from the show’s organisers wanting to check if the story he presented is true. Luciano, played by Aniello Arena, currently in jail for murder, turns his life into an act performed before the eyes of an invisible audience.
The film mocks reality television and demonstrates how deeply it can affect people. Even though the picture has received some criticism for its predictability and approaching a worn-out topic, an outstanding performance by Arena and the film’s striking visual style cannot be denied.
Italian audiences will be able to judge the film for themselves on the 28th of September.
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Saturday the 23rd of June 2012 marked the inauguration of Verona’s new museum in the Palazzo Forti, dedicated to opera. The opening of the Arena Museo Opera – AMO – coincided with the beginning of the Arena’s lyrical season, following a race against time to complete the first floor, the nucleus of the museum. The finishing touches will be made to AMO in June 2013, during the centenary celebrations of the lyrical festival.
AMO’s mission is to contribute to the development and popularisation of Italy’s great culture of opera through the exhibition of original documents and the use of multimedia. Operatic scores, letters and notes from the great composers Bellini, Rossini, Donizetti, Verdi, Puccini have been brought together and put on public display for the first time. This fascinating material is accompanied by costumes, sets, sketches and photographs. The exhibits have been obtained from the glorious Ricordi
archive and from the Arena’s own collection.
The driving concept for the new museum is to accompany the visitor through the extraordinary creative process of staging an opera: from the first sketch and the compilation of the operatic text to the writing of the score, from set and costume design to singing rehearsal and theatrical production. The various exhibits are separated by heavy crimson velvet curtains, which other than reminding visitors of the precise and dramatic layout of a traditional Italian opera theatre, also serve to isolate the spaces acoustically.
The Palazzo Forti, currently the property of the Fondazione Cariverona, is historically one of Verona’s most important buildings. Constructed in the medieval era, it was expanded and embellished by architects up until the 1800s, becoming the official residence of Napoleon Bonaparte following his conquest of Northern
Italy. In 1937 the palace was donated by Achille Forti to the city of Verona, with the intention of transforming it into a museum. From 1982 until 2011 it hosted the Modern and Contemporary Art Gallery of Verona. No changes have been made to the internal structure of the building, to the flooring or any of the furnishing. Decorative elements have also been preserved; frescoes, doors and windows, along with the walls of certain rooms, remain as they once were.
Location:Palazzo Forti, Via Massalongo n.7, Verona.
Admission: €10.00, conc €7.00, under 18 €5.00
Opening hours: April – September from 9.00 to 19.30; October – March from 9.30 to 19.30; Monday mornings closed.
Photo courtesy of Enit
AMO Opera! Verona’s new operatic museum, Arena Museo Opera, opens its doors.
News from the World of tourism
17 Partnership
THE ULTIMATE ITALIAN RESTAURANT:Le TentazioniJust a short walk from the imperial splendour of Tower Bridge, a quiet revolution is taking place in Bermondsey, the new foodie destination of choice
Nestled amongst the former wharfs and mills of South East London, just around the corner
from the converted railway arches that host the fledgling Maltby Street market, you will find the understated elegance of Le Tentazioni, a favourite haunt of old Cockney families and young hipster couples alike.
The effortless cool of the southeast London streets ave reflected in the restaurant’s modern interior, which eschews traditional Italian decor in favour of deep reds and purples and abstract paintings to create an atmosphere as cosy as it is cool.Chef and proprietor Riccardo proudly informs me of his involvement in every aspect of the restaurant’s development, from planning the warming interior to selecting the chilled Franciacorta Prosecco that makes a welcoming aperitivo.
On his way back to the kitchen, Riccardo stops to chat with tables of regulars, but that is where the similarities with a neighbourhood chef end, for Riccardo’s authentic Italian cooking has a wonderfully modern edge.
From Rimini, Romagna, the cradle of Italian cuisine, Riccardo goes to great lengths to source the finest Italian ingredients, noticeable in every detail of his cooking, right down to the award winning San Giuliano Alghero olive oil that accompanies my Focaccia, its disarmingly smooth taste making way for an explosive kick.
Heston Blumenthal states that food should not be overpowering but should create a “party in your mouth”.
Ristorante Le Tentazioni by Nilo Fido
That is exactly what took place when I tasted the starter of risotto Franciacorta with aged balsamic vinegar and strawberries, the sweetness of the fruit and Prosecco lending an unusually sumptuous flavour to the perfectly cooked rice.
Another of Le Tentazioni’s signature starters, the Insalata di Pesche and Stracchino Mousse was delectable, the gentle peachy tang wonderfully offsetting the delicate, creamy cheese.
Amongst other must-haves are the raviolo fritto appetizer and the citrus-fragranced Swordfish Carpaccio, which went down a treat with a glass of Gavi Riserva Etichetta d’oro, from an exciting list of mostly Italian wines.
For serious pasta lovers I recommend the Spaghettini with Mullet Bottarga, a superb Sardinian dish. Cured Mullet roe are not to everyone’s taste, but washing mine down with a glass of superb Barbera Riserva, Cantina Moratti, I found it hard to stop myself from ordering another plate there and then.
Just when I thought I could not possibly eat any more, I found myself indulging in the blissful creaminess of Riccardo’s Tortino Caldo.
Beautifully presented, this warm chocolate pudding filled with an oozing vanilla and chocolate fondant goes a long way to capturing perfection on a plate.
Le Tentazioni is not the kind of place you would stumble across, but for those lucky enough to have grown up nearby, or to have found it on a pilgrimage to London’s new foodie Mecca, it is the perfect place for an early evening aperitivo and cicchetti, a light midday bite, or, as I discovered, some serious gastronomical dining.
Wander your way over – and you’ll wonder why you’ve not done so before.
18 Partnership
Words by Melody Dadon
METHOD
Season the beef with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Heat a frying pan until hot, add the oil and some of the butter, seal the beef on each side for three minutes then remove from the heat and set aside to rest.
Heat a sauté pan until hot; add some more of the butter and the onion, cut side down. Fry until the bottom of the onion is completely browned then add the Madeira and cook until it has been reduced by half.
Add the red wine, reduce again then add the stock and cook once more until reduced by half. Strain into a clean pan then whisk in 25 grams of the butter and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Keep warm.
Heat a frying pan until hot, add a little more butter and the spinach, cook until the spinach has wilted down then season with a little salt and some freshly ground black pepper. Drain the spinach onto kitchen paper.
Heat the last of the butter in a clean frying pan until foaming then add the foie gras slices and cook on each side until golden brown. To serve, lay the spinach then the fillet steak, finish with the escalope of foie gras and a ladle of Madeira sauce over the top.
Autumn Recipe by Riccardo Giacomini,
Chef patron of Le Tentazioni
Beef Fillets and Foie Gras Escalope
• 2x 200gr beef fillet steak • Salt & pepper• 2tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil• 100gr Butter• 1 small onion• 150gr Madeira wine• 150ml Red wine• 250ml beef or chicken stock• 250gr baby spinach• 150ml Red wine• 250ml beef or chicken stock• 250gr baby spinach• Cacao powder• 2 slices of duck foie gras, 50g each
19 Partnership
Overseas property hunters from all around the UK will gather at the NEC at the end of
September for the next edition of A Place in the Sun Live, the UK’s largest overseas property exhibition.
A Place in the Sun first hit TV screens in Britain in 2000 and helped fuel the British appetite for owning a holiday home abroad. Its continued success on Channel 4 helped launch a monthly magazine in 2004 targeting British buyers looking for information and inspiration on buying outside the UK. A year later A Place in the Sun Live was launched, bringing together agents, developers and service providers, as well as foreign exchange companies, lawyers and tax advisers, to meet British buyers face-to-face. A Place in the Sun Live continues today with two shows a year, one in the spring at London’s Earls Court and the second in the autumn at the National Exhibition Centre (NEC) Birmingham.
Today’s buyer is typically better informed, more questioning and eager to learn about the buying process, mortgage availability, rental potential and ongoing costs before considering their first purchase – and rightly so. Key elements of A Place in the Sun Live are the presentations on the main stage, the advice given out in seminar theatres and the editorial content of
the exhibition. The seminar formula employed in the Buying Advice Theatre and in the dedicated seminar theatres within each country-themed pavilion is one chosen by many tax and legal advisers, who are prepared to give detailed advice on every aspect of the process.
In addition to technical advice, more practical information comes from the TV series presenters Amanda Lamb, Jonnie Irwin and Jasmine Harman, who will be appearing on the Main stage over the weekend, providing their own top tips on buying property overseas. The TV show is one of the main drivers for the exhibition and its stars helped A Place in the Sun Live grow from 2005 to 2008. It’s the same high-profile presence that has helped it survive the ongoing financial crisis. Naturally the exhibitions are smaller than they used to be in 2006 for example, but A Place in the Sun Live remains the market-leading event for companies wanting to reach potential British buyers for overseas homes.
Italian agencies will present their properties on offer in the country’s dedicated area, the Italian Pavilion, organised in association with the Italian Chamber of Commerce for the UK and sponsored by Gate-Away, the leading Italian portal for foreign buyers.
Italy is still ranked among the top European destinations for visitors of the show, holding a strong 4th place position, after Spain, France and Portugal. “UK investors continue to be among some of the greatest lovers of Italy as well as the biggest group of buyers in the world in proportion to their number of inhabitants,” commented Sales Manager Simone Rossi.
An International LifestyleA candid insight into the UK’s biggest and best attended overseas property exhibition.
Amanda Lamb, presenter of Channel 4’s ‘A Place in the Sun’ and proud owner of a holiday home in Puglia’.
Chamber
20 Partnership
Words by Eva Lamorgese
Luigi Fontana explains why the prospects for Britain’s solar energy market are anything but gloomy.
Hello Sunshine
Due to the unprecedented pressure on our climate and on the environment, a transition to a green economy has become a global priority. In 2011 record levels of investment were pumped into clean sources of energies, especially solar, in all western countries. The short term outlook is less certain due to the financial situation of European governments and the general scarcity of investment capital. In the medium term the European market is still expected to be responsible for a significant portion of the world’s total increase in solar installed capacity, growing from 1,089 MWp in 2004 to a predicted 40,355MWp in 2020.
Over the past decade, wind energy has been given precedence over solar in the UK: 57% of total investments in renewables between 2005 and 2009 were in wind, compared to only 1.9% in solar energy. The solar market is demonstrating great potential however and over the course of the last couple of years the market has boomed, largely thanks to the introduction of government subsidies. Furthermore, the British market is potentially very similar to the German one, both in terms of climate and economy, but it is currently at a much less developed stage. Contrary to common belief, there is plenty of solar radiation
available in England and Wales for the production of energy.
Government subsidies, stable regulation and strong levels of solar radiation present excellent business opportunities for Italian Companies. Luca Maresia, Sales Manager for Fototherm Srl, affirms these benefits: “The UK market presents a number of very interesting opportunities for our company, in particular an encouraging Feed-In Tariff scheme for both photovoltaics and thermophotovoltaics along with a stable, positive outlook for market regulations and potential installations in the medium term”.
The UK is currently 5th in Ernst & Young’s Renewables Attractiveness Index, data that ranks national renewable energy markets. In solar energy, there is the potential for UK installed capacity to increase dramatically to just over 6,000 MWp by 2020 and, despite the recent cut of Feed-In Tariffs, a balanced market is emerging, with room for different types of module technologies. The new FIT tariff, which diminishes the level of support for small-scale PV systems by 50%, remains workable and is likely to trigger a dynamic market again in 2012.
In addition, the Renewable Heat Incentive acts as a payment system for the
generation of heat from renewable energy sources introduced in the United Kingdom from 28 November 2011. The RHI cash payments are paid to owners who install renewable heat generation (including solar thermal) equipment in non-domestic buildings and, in October 2012, these are due to be extended to domestic buildings encouraging investments in this sector.
A significant sign of the optimism for the UK PV market is the presence of all the main Italian solar companies at Ecobuild 2012, including FVG Energy, Enerpoint, Fototherm, Sunerg Solar, Sistemi Fotovoltaici, Energy 4 Evolution, Gefran, Ht Italia, VP Solar and Ecosunpower. Fototherm in particular has asserted the importance of the fair: “Ecobuild has provided us with interesting commercial leads and contacts in the past. We also value the appreciation expressed by installers and engineers met at Ecobuild 2012 for the high quality of materials and technology used in the production of our modules”.
For further information on the UK solar market, please take a look at the Carbon Plan which sets out the Government’s plans:
www.decc.gov.uk
Photo used under Creative Commons from EnergieAgentur. NRW
Feature
21 Partnership
To see our full list of members, please log on to our website www.italchamind.org.uk and go to the Members’ Directory page.
Welcome to NEW MEMBERS
22 Partnership
ROMAGNO MARMI SRL
Benefactor Member
From artisan to international company, Romagno Marmi is now a market leader in the production of marble furniture. Our company has dedicated over 60 years to the production of marble furniture at the highest level, combining passion and care to select and process marbles, creating an unlimited number of architectural solutions.
Vito RomagnoProvinciale Mola -Rutigliano Km 470042Mola di Bari, Italy(+39) 080 474 1975www.romagnomarmi.it
TAX & ADVISE LTD
Supporter Member
Tax & Advise is a young and dynamic business consultancy providing services related to the incorporation of new companies, tax optimization, and expansion into international markets, pursuing the commercial success of companies and individuals. Tax & Advise is a young, thriving, and highly specialized company, assisting its clients at every step towards success. We’re newly established, the brainchild of a completely new business concept aiming to supply basic guidelines for creating, optimizing, or expanding a company in several jurisdictions, in what we like to define as a “one stop shop”, boasting of the advantage of highly experienced personnel with significant experience in the field of reference.
Claudio Fioresta3 More London Riverside, London SE1 2RE, UK(+44) 020 7183 1328www.taxandadvise.com
FOREST & RAY – ITALIAN DENTIST PRACTICE
Supporter Member
At our Central London clinic we’re able to provide the highest quality of dental care in implantology, oral surgery, periodontology, general dentistry, cosmetic dentistry and oral hygiene. In an environment of care and comfort, Dr Roberto Di Febo, expert in all the latest dental techniques, can make a healthy, functional and beautiful smile become a reality. We offer a mother language dental care service for Italians in London, making the experience even more accommodating.
Matteo Zoltan8F Gilbert Place, London WC1A 2SD, UK(+44) 020 8123 3132www.think-teeth.co.uk
PULSE MEDIA SRL
Corporate Member
Pulsemedia, leading European technology and services company, works to create end-to-end customised solutions for the delivery of live/on-demand video content to any digital platform.As producer, web designer and multiplatform distributor, PULSEMEDIA plays a strategic role in the multimedia communications sector.Its success is based on a perfect synthesis between authorial sensitivity and technological know-how.
Roberto RuiniVia Pier Carlo Cadoppi, 1442124 Reggio Emilia, Italy(+39) 0522 243080www.pulsemedia.it
LOVEN ASSOCIATI
Corporate Member
Loven Associati boasts a team of professionals capable of responding to the demands of both private and small business clients. The firm offers a full range of legal counsel and support services in judicial and extrajudicial forums. With offices in Rome, Milan and partnership across the world, the firm is capable of providing global legal support, confronting and resolving legal issues across countries.
Silvia LucarelliVia Leon Pancaldo 2600147 Rome, Italy(+39) 069 6526 115www.lovenassociati.it
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For more information about the Chamber and Membership, please see www.italchamind.eu or contact the Secretariat on telephone 0044 (0)207 495 8191 or by email to [email protected] our online networks today on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.com/italianchamUK
JOIN THE ICCIUK
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YOUNG & PARTNERS LLP
Corporate Member
Mirella Marchini; an Italian Avvocato, Scottish solicitor and public notary, heads up our Italian desk and offers clients a seamless one-stop approach to problems in or connected with Italy. We are specialists in Energy, Arbitration, Corporate, Real Estate and Employment matters with unrivalled connections and market knowledge.
Mirella Marchini1 George Square, Castle Brae, Dunfermline, Dunfermline KY11 8QF, UK(+44) 01383 721621www.businesslaw.co.uk
HELP - THE EMPLOYMENT LAW PLANT - STUDIO LEGALE PERSIANI
Corporate Member
HELP is an innovative and dynamic international employment law boutique firm with offices in Milan, Rome and Palermo. Thanks to its network of hand-picked employment law specialists in over 50 countries, the firm is perfectly positioned to provide international companies with global HR solutions globally using local experts. We have extensive experience in both advisory and contentious HR matters.
Sharon Reilly Via Pietrasanta 1220141 Milan, Italy(+39) 02 3673 6350www.help-pers.com
BBA ASSOCIATES
Corporate Member
BBA Associates Marketing is a marketing and business development consultancy specialised in delivering a full range of services to companies operating in key market sectors including B2B, Professional Services and non-profit organisations. BBA Associates also offer tailored solutions for Italian companies looking at UK market entry, market share development or short-term partnerships to support their UK marketing activities.
Anna Stella207 Regent Street London W1B 3HH, UK(+44) 020 7193 4257www.bba-marketing.com
QUALITY VILLAS LTD
Corporate Member
Quality Villas Ltd is a villas rental agency offering luxury holiday villas with pool for rentals across Italy, France, Morocco and ski chalets in the Alps. Our website is www.qualityvillasitaly.co.uk and we have offices based in Berkhamsted, Herts. We are ABTA members and financially bonded.
Daniel Thomson325 High Street Berkhamsted Hertfordshire HP4 1AL, UK(+44) 01442 870 055www.qualityvillasitaly.co.uk
your future
ExCeL, London. Tuesday 5 – Thursday 7 March 2013
www.ecobuild.co.uk
Ecobuild is the world’s biggest event for sustainable design, construction and the built environment.
ORGANISED BYLEAD SUPPORTERS
Ecobuild13Ad_297x210mm.indd 1 13/07/2012 14:53