A E P O R U E Nbusiness B usiness in ITALY al edition 2 / 2 0 1 7 c i S p e www.european-business.com

CONTENTS TRADE MEDIA & ADVERTISING Vision Group SpA A strong vision for the future 4 Euro Target SRL Right on target SPORTS, LEISURE, WELLNESS, ARTS ELECTRONICS Welt Electronic SpA Maximum customer benefit CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY & BUILDING SUPPLIES Vortex Hydra S.r.l. Innovation made in Italy FOOD & BEVERAGES Valle Ca’ Zuliani Società Agricola SRL More fish to fry Novomatic Italia SpA A sure bet CHILI S.p.A. Watch this online film space SERVICES 3D Systems Italia SRL Where 3D becomes reality 6 8 9 METAL PROCESSING INDUSTRY BODEGA G. & C. S.p.a. Extruding above its weight 10 INDUSTRIAL SUPPLIES, SERVICES Silcart S.p.A. Innovation drives us 12 14 16 18 20 IMPRINT Publisher: International Business Verlag GmbH Address: Landersumer Weg 40 · 48431 Rheine · Germany Phone: +49 5971 92161-0 · Fax: +49 5971 92161-854 info@european-business.com · www.european-business.com Editor-in-chief: M. J. Brinkmann 3 3 www.european-business.com N A E P O R U E business

on offering them a professional improve customer satisfaction with service and expert advice. We also their purchases. “We are special- provide our franchisees with the ists for progressive and multi-focal opportunity to undertake regular lenses that combine distance and training to keep them up to date reading functionality in a single with new product developments.” pair of glasses,” says Mr. Procac- A recent innovation is the introduc- ciante. tion of virtual mirrors that allow The optical sector in Italy is un- customers to try on frames virtual- dergoing a significant level of con- ly. It means that the customer can solidation. This is one of the key compare the look of different col- reasons for the Vision Group’s own ourways without the shop having strong growth. “We see ourselves to keep all of them in stock. “We as family opticians and want to be are currently piloting the use of the as close to our customers as possi- The Vision Group takes part in both optical and franchising trade fairs In 2014, an investment fund ac- accessories. Its vision products system in several outlets, and if ble,” says Mr. Procacciante. “This quired a share in the group. The are also technologically advanced. it proves successful, we will roll it means we will continue to expand injection of capital that this brought “People looking for corrective eye- out to other franchisees,” says Mr. our network of opticians through- allowed the Vision Group to expand wear will find an extensive range of Procacciante. “We are also bring- out Italy.” The group expects to even more rapidly. “Last year, we attractive frames in our outlets as ing the experience onto the web add two to three outlets per month decided to join the Elite project on well as the latest high-performance by using the smartphone camera.” under its VisionOttica brand and the Italian stock market in order lenses to ensure that their spec- This system was first introduced anticipates that, within the next five to open ourselves up still further tacles look good and give their in the USA, but the Vision Group or six years it will be the leading to the market,” says Mr. Procac- wearer the best possible vision,” is the first company in Italy to use name in the Italian market. “We ciante. “Our modern franchising says Mr. Procacciante. “We offer the system and hopes it will help have a strong vision for the future, concept and customer-centric the latest thin lens technology as strengthen customer loyalty. While and it is based on professional, approach have given us a solid well as high-performance coatings technology helps improve the cus- foundation upon which to build a for greater wearer comfort.” The tomer experience in-store, other personalized service,” says Mr. Procacciante in conclusion. ❙ successful brand.” Vision Group latest development in this area is technological advances are helping franchise stores follow a multi- a coating designed for computer brand philosophy that combines users. Spectacles with this coat- proprietary brands with products ing protect the eyes from the blue from major global manufactur- light emitted by digital devices ers. “Our target customer group is screens. The coating shortens the relatively well off and interested in wavelength of the ultraviolet rays high-quality products,” says Mr. which can be irritating to users Procacciante. “They are prepared spending long periods of time look- to spend a little more on something ing at their digital devices. “We are that they know will be worn every focused on eye health as much day and that will have a significant as appearance, and this also has effect on their appearance.” That an influence on the location of our is why luxury brands are so impor- franchises,” says Mr. Procacci- tant to the Vision Group concept. ante. “We prefer highly populated districts to fashion streets. Our Vision Group SpA Via Ripamonti 44 20141 Milan Italy  +39 0292 885300  +39 0292 885348 Nevertheless, the Italian company consumer base is predominantly is not just concerned with fashion made up of families. We focus A virtual mirror screen allows customers to try out colours that are not in stock  info@vision-group.it  www.vision-group.it 5 www.european-business.com N A E P O R U E business

Novomatic Italia SpA Via Galla Placidia, 2 47922 Rimini (RN) Italy  +39 0541 420611  +39 0541 420699  info@novomatic.it comunicatione@novomatic.it  www.novomatic.it NOVOMATIC’s headquarters in Rimini on Italy’s Adriatic coast success and can be played both of the latest innovations from the challenges is how to promote a ple use smart phone technology on machines in amusement ar- company is Phoenix™, a new responsible attitude. “One of the to access sites. We see the Italian cades and online.” slots game with five reels and 50 keys to NOVOMATIC’s success and market growing rapidly in the next paylines. “It has been developed something that sets it apart is our five to six years as further deregu- Book of Ra takes players on a jour- in response to customer feedback approach to responsible gaming,” lation expands opportunities. Our ney of exploration through the mys- and offers a gaming experience says Ms. Oliva. “Despite legaliza- aim is to broaden our network. At terious world of ancient Egypt as tailored to their preferences,” adds tion, we are still subject to strict NOVOMATIC the sky’s the limit.” they search for a mythological book Mr. Ruta. regulations and have a responsibil- With its positive attitude and ambi- that brings untold wealth to the ity to identify problem gamblers tious aims, gambling on the future owner. The classic version of the NOVOMATIC is currently launching visiting our establishments. This is game was released in March 2005 a new self-service betting terminal a responsibility that we take very and a deluxe version was released for the fixed odds betting market. seriously.” Gaming is very much success of NOVOMATIC Italia seems like a sure bet. ❙ in April 2008. The latest version, “With just 40 betting shops in Italy seen as entertainment which must Book of Ra Deluxe 6, was released this is one area where we are not be paid for just like any other form in August 2015. It features six reels yet the biggest player in the Italian of amusement, and NOVOMATIC and up to ten paylines. While Book market,” says Mr. Ruta. “How- works hard to offer its customers of Ra remains NOVOMATIC’s most ever, it also means that there is value for money. popular slots game, the company plenty of potential for growth and offers a full range of gaming termi- we will be focusing our attention NOVOMATIC nals and video lottery machines. in the next few years on increas- has helped Worldwide, the NOVOMATIC Group ing our presence in this market.” bring gaming operates more than 235,000 gam- Another under-represented corner and gambling into the ing terminals. of the gaming market from NOVO- acceptable mainstream MATIC’s point of view is the bingo and even boasts former For- The company is seen as a pioneer market. The company operates six mula One driver Niki Lauda as in the gaming technology market bingo halls in Italy and is also keen its brand ambassador. “A key and invests heavily in research to see this number grow in the area for expansion is the online and development each year. “NO- near future. VOMATIC is Europe’s undisputed gaming arena,” says Mr. Ruta. “Online casinos, betting shops number one in high-tech gaming The gaming industry is worth bil- and bingo sites are rising in technology,” says Mr. Ruta. One lions worldwide and one of its popularity as more peo- 7 www.european-business.com N A E P O R U E business

Interview with Alessandro Buson, Sales Manager of 3D Systems Italia SRL A prototype using SLA technology including finish A stereolithography model of the Fiat 500L with aesthetic finish Car part made using SLS and SLA technology Where 3D becomes reality “We have never told a client it can’t be made.” This is the vision of 3D Systems Italia SRL, a 3D printing company located near Turin, Italy. For more than 20 years, 3D Systems Italia has brought the future to the present by remaining at the forefront of 3D printing technology in order to provide numerous sectors with time and cost-efficient solutions. If an object can be designed on also known as SLS. A major mile- also works in the household ap- Systems Italia is continually invest- a computer, it can probably also stone occurred for Provel in 2010 pliances, healthcare, design and ing in its growth, for example with be 3D printed. 3D Systems Italia when it was acquired by 3D Sys- fashion, and energy, oil and gas the introduction of a machine for SRL brings a myriad of digital ren- tems, an American company that industries. “3D printing technol- metal printing. It is exactly this derings to life using cutting-edge invented 3D printing in the 1980s. ogy is applicable in all sectors, and dynamism that drives Mr. Buson. technology and machinery. The Provel, which was already the any company that has to develop a “I possess an emotional tie, since company got its start in 1994 when largest in the European market, new product or part within a short Provel was founded by my father, founder Giorgio Buson established was the first company 3D Systems period of time is our ideal client,” so I saw the company start and Provel SRL, a rapid prototyping acquired in Europe, which was points out Mr. Buson. grow. It is a very interesting market service. “Everything started with a testament to Provel’s superior and world, and I look forward to my father’s idea. He saw a stereo- products and methodologies. “The 3D Systems Italia has rightfully the constant influx of new products lithography – also called SLA – 3D acquisition has broadened our earned its number one spot in the print at an exhibition and proposed range, and we are now a one-stop Italian market, and it is one of the and new challenges,” he high- lights. ❙ its introduction to the Italian mar- shop for everything that has to top competitors in Europe. “Our ket. Back then, however, no one do with 3D technology, including clients come to us because of our employed this technology. He also software and printing,” Mr. Buson vast experience. We have been in suggested the use of another re- notes. lated technology known as vacuum this sector for more than 20 years, and we have seen everything! And casting. Today, years later, we 3D Systems Italia concentrates on our clients know that experience still do the same thing,” explains products in the automotive sector, translates into quality. Compared Giorgio’s son and 3D Systems Italia where headlights, bumper or body- to our competitors, we offer a full Sales Manager Alessandro Buson. work, and many other parts com- variety of services and technolo- The company also makes use of posed of plastic are in demand. 3D gies. We don’t have to convince newer 3D printing techniques, printing has many other applica- the client that our solution is the such as selective laser sintering, tions, however, and the company best,” emphasizes Mr. Buson. 3D 9 www.european-business.com 3D Systems Italia SRL Via Roberto Incerti 25 10064 Pinerolo (TO) Italy  +39 0121 376 966  info.it@3dsystems.com  www.3dsystems.com N A E P O R U E business

BODEGA produces a wide range of extruded aluminium profiles from a databank of more than 60,000 profile designs and has the expertise to make anything the client wants from a technical drawing says Mr. Del Gracco. “Aluminium graphic markets. Exports already by 30% since the financial crisis of technical bureau that is able to do has long been used in engine com- account for 30% of sales with 2008, BODEGA is well-advised to more than just standard profiles,” ponents to reduce weight but we Germany accounting for the lion’s look beyond its traditional markets says Mr. Del Gracco. “We can are seeing its use in other areas of share of this figure. “We are cur- for its future. “There is a wave of make anything the client wants car manufacture rise. For example rently active in France, Austria, the consolidation coming in this sec- and have built up a databank with the latest Jaguar XS model was Netherlands and Switzerland but tor as the smaller operators are more than 60,000 profiles. We made completely from aluminium. want to expand eastwards to Rus- swallowed by larger ones or band can also respond very quickly to Developments that start off in the sia and possibly Asia through the together for strength,” predicts Mr. customer orders. These are the luxury end of the market eventually establishment of a joint venture,” Del Gracco. ”We have a major role trickle down into the mass market outlines Mr. Del Gracco. “I could to play in this development.” With qualities that will assure us positive future growth.” ❙ as well.” also imagine setting up a produc- 234 employees and turnover of tion plant in the US to serve the 100 million EUR, BODEGA is con- As well as exploring new applica- North American market in the fident that it can grow in the future. tions for its products, BODEGA future.” With aluminium consump- “We are more than just an extru- is also keen to explore new geo- tion in its domestic market down sion company, we have our own BODEGA G. & C. S.p.a. Via Marianna, 14 24034 Cisano Bergamasco (BG) Italy  +39 035 438211  +39 035 4382200  bodega@bodega.it  www.bodega.it N A E P O R U E business A selection of architectural profiles for use in building facades 11 www.european-business.com

Silcart’s headquarters in Carbonera, Treviso, where it employs a workforce of 80 people Silcart S.p.A. Via Spercenigo, 5 31030 Carbonera (TR) Italy  +39 0422 445507  +39 0422 445507  info@silcartcorp.com  www.silcartcorp.com order to meet the demands of our for instance, is strong, even when Brondolin. “Glass Xtreme Black Brondolin. With Silcart Tex Defend- customers.” Silcart is determined it comes to difficult segments such is a flexible bituminous facing for er, Silcart has introduced a breath- to establish itself as a tier one sup- as construction and engineering.” insulation panels and can be used able synthetic underlay membrane plier to large multinational chemi- for various covering layers with which offers products antibacte- cal companies and to support their The company’s constant desire to bituminous membranes or PVC rial, anti-mould and anti-insect end product portfolio. Currently, innovate has resulted in a num- while most other products can only properties that might otherwise it serves customers in more than ber of new product highlights to cope with one typology.” Superfelt damage the water impermeability 50 countries worldwide, exporting complement the existing range. Cube is a bituminous underlay that of the product. “We will keep on about 80% of its production. “No Agrifacer for agricultural applica- prevents and protects against the innovating also with regard to en- doubt, Europe is our key market, tions, for instance, is a patented risk of infiltration along the area of vironmentally friendly solutions. as most of the large companies mixed product that is supplied to mechanical fixture and guarantees This will remain a strong issue for and large distribution partners are manufacturers of polyurethane water impermeability up to 6 °C. the coming years,” stresses Mr. located here,” states Mr. Bron- panels for stables and pens. “The “There is no comparable product Brondolin. “The launch of new dolin. “We are always looking for plastic facing for insulation pan- in the market right now with the influential and flourishing markets els is highly resistant to chemical same mechanical resistance and products is always in line with strict environmental requirements.” ❙ in Europe and beyond. Germany, agents and condensate,” says Mr. the same long durability,” says Mr. Silcart offers a wide range of products for general industry, roofing, acoustic, pack- aging and agriculture The company is present at major fairs to introduce its new innovations 13 www.european-business.com N A E P O R U E business

Euro Target SRL via Madonna delle Neve, 5B 24121 Bergamo Italy  +39 035 477811  +39 035 477855  mbox@eurotarget.it  www.eurotarget.it Target’s inventory of selling points. clients. “So far, we have had great “We offer profound knowledge of success due to word-of-mouth the Italian territory, and novelties and great management, but we in the food and beverage industry, are launching a website for our locations and entertainment,” 25th anniversary in an effort to put says Ms. Fidanza. The company is our name out there even more,” not only an asset in Italy though, she highlights. “Each day, we dis- with international heavy hitters cover something new and adapt such as BMW and Deutsche Bank it to the modern world’s complex- as part of its clientele. In fact, Eu- ity. We really are multitasking in roTarget is fast becoming a land- our job; we always find integrated mark for international customers solutions and we offer assistance when they choose Italy for their for nearly everything, except tra- events or initiatives. ditional advertising. We have the capability to help our clients find Ms. Fidanza looks forward to new strategies because we are what the future has in store for innovators, able to replace what EuroTarget, as well as what the company continues to offer its is obsolete with new things and ideas.” ❙ EuroTarget organized the ‘Audi Dealer Meeting 2015’ at Forte Village in Sardinia 15 www.european-business.com

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Vortex Hydra S.r.l. Via Argine Volano, 355 44034 Fossalta di Copparo Italy  +39 0532 879411  +39 0532 866766  vh.sales@vortexhydra.com  www.vortexhydra.com www.wetcast.it www.vortexhydraused.com www.vortexhydradams.com with large valves to control water rubber moulds automatically with flows and gates to build dams significantly less personnel. Other and waterways. Vortex Hydra has advantages are the ideal control of been a partner for many different the quality of the product, a higher international dam construction degree of safety and a reduction projects. “We are an expert in en- of heavy operations for the work- gineering work for dams and make ers. In addition, Vortex automation things rational and manageable for wet cast is used to reproduce in the construction process,” says a natural stone finish on a manu- the Marketing Director. “We man- factured concrete veneer cladding age to simplify things and develop stone with the use of special rub- concepts and solutions which are ber moulds. easy to implement and maintain. We have a very future-oriented With regard to digital transforma- approach and want to create solu- tion, the company is also working Vortex Hydra is the worldwide leader in concrete roof tile machinery tions that can last for many dec- on solutions such as total produc- ades. Our customers value this ap- tion management software. The proach, and we have, for instance, machines will be equipped with Vortex Hydra has not only been is looking for sales representation completed different projects for machine sheets, which comprise active in Italy, but also abroad, and in Africa, Asia and South America. water gates in Iraq.” a summary of the machine’s set- today, 100% of the customers are “We can look back on 50 success- tings, replacement of spare parts, located abroad, for example in Af- ful years, and we plan to remain in Wet cast production is the newest maintenance time and involved rica, Asia, Thailand, Indonesia and the market for the next 50 years,” business unit, and the company operators. “We have a comprehen- the USA. Besides its headquarters says Ms. Merli. “We still have a lot has recently developed a new pat- sive technical competence and a in Italy, the company has locations of ideas for innovation. We are an ented technology in this area. This high level of automation,” points in Australia, Brazil, China and the technology called Brush demold- out Ms. Merli. “We keep in mind United Kingdom. The firm has a ing system® significantly increases quality control and also people’s total of 60 employees and real- the level of automation and ena- health. This is rewarded by the izes annual turnover of 17 million bles the customer to demould the companies working with us.” EUR. For the future, Vortex Hydra Italian company and have the right spirit for future development.” ❙ 19 www.european-business.com N A E P O R U E business

Valle Ca’ Zuliani Società Agricola SRL Via Gardizza 9/B 48017 Conselice (RA) Italy  +39 0545 989511  +39 0545 989733  oliver.martini@vallecazuliani.it  www.vallecazuliani.it the 30 million fry it produces each For example, Mr. Martini recounts year with a healthy environment at that “we did a lot of research in the company’s two plants. the last few years. We managed to reduce the fish breeding and Fry hatching and breeding is a growth time.” Valle Ca’ Zuliani also specialized market, and Valle Ca’ participates in international trade Zuliani has taken advantage of this fairs, such as those in Tunisia and fact by focusing on expanding inter- Belgium, to expand their network. nationally. “We know the market. As far as fry is concerned, it is a very In the future, Mr. Martini hopes to small world. In North Africa, unlike maintain stable production, as well Italy, the breeding of fry is more as triple the production of mature difficult, because its temperatures fish for the market. He remains are higher, and therefore there is a optimistic about the company’s higher risk of disease or illness,” Mr. future and, in the meantime, re- Martini points out. Consequently, mains fulfilled and challenged in countries such as Egypt, Tunisia his role. “It is a very nice job, be- and Algeria contribute to the com- cause we have a living product. It pany’s export business, which ac- is a world that is in continuous de- counts for 70% of all sales. velopment. There is always some- thing to learn, and there is always In addition to being geographi- enough space for innovation and cally advantaged, Valle Ca’ Zuliani changes. It is a young profession is always open to new methods which might improve performance. and therefore very stimulating,” adds Mr. Martini. ❙ 21 www.european-business.com N A E P O R U E business