Gruppo Vicenzi: a sweet journey through time
Born in the heart of Verona in 1905 from Matilde Vicenzi’s passion, the company has undergone a long and complex growth journey thanks to her grandson Giuseppe Vicenzi, transforming into one of Italy’s leading players in the bakery sector.
With over 120 years of history, the group is today one of the most important success stories in the Italian confectionery sector, capable of establishing itself in 97 countries while maintaining strong ties to its original pastry-making quality.
Key milestones of strategic and sustainable growth
Vicenzi’s growth trajectory has been guided by thoughtful business decisions, strong attention to quality, and long-term vision. Some key milestones:
- From artisanal workshop to modern confectionery industry
From its beginnings as a small family pastry shop, the company has progressively automated and expanded its production processes. Today Vicenzi operates three facilities in Italy, equipped with cutting-edge technology yet capable of preserving the delicacy of artisanal production. - Strategic acquisitions and external growth
In 2005, the acquisition of the Grisbì and Mr. Day brands marked a decisive moment: it not only expanded the product portfolio but also strengthened its presence in the premium segment of filled cookies and snacks. This move, together with entry into new foreign markets, represented one of the most successful strategic acquisitions in the Italian bakery sector. - Internationalization and B2B channel development
Today Vicenzi is present in 97 countries. The group has consolidated its international presence through distributors, private label partnerships, B2B collaborations, and participation in major industry trade shows. International expansion for confectionery companies is a complex process, but Vicenzi has successfully adapted to local tastes while maintaining the identity of Italian products.
Words from the founding president
In his institutional statement available on vicenzi.it, Giuseppe Vicenzi, the group’s historic president, shares:
We have always believed in innovation that doesn’t betray our identity. Our strength lies in the balance between tradition and innovation.
This philosophy underlies every strategic decision: from developing new formats and flavors, to digitalizing processes, to focusing on environmental sustainability.
Growth by numbers
The latest data from the sustainability report shows positive trends across all areas:
- +28% export growth over the last 5 years
- 360 employees across 3 production sites
- International certifications for quality management, food safety, and process and product quality
- Investments in sustainable packaging and energy optimization
The 120th anniversary thus becomes not just a celebration, but also the starting point for new achievements.
A future-oriented vision
Looking ahead, Vicenzi aims to:
- Strengthen its presence in emerging markets like Asia
- Invest in smart automation and artificial intelligence applied to production
- Develop a product line even more focused on wellness (lactose-free and vegan, gluten-free)
- Expand the B2B and co-manufacturing segment, partnering with major international players in the bakery sector
The corporate history of gruppo Vicenzi serves as a virtuous example for all Italian confectionery companies looking to expand abroad without losing their roots. It’s concrete proof that you can grow while maintaining a strong identity, investing in quality, valuing human capital, and respecting the environment.
Vicenzi is not just a cookie manufacturer: it’s an ambassador of Italian pastry-making to the world.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
- What are the origins of gruppo Vicenzi?
Gruppo Vicenzi was founded in 1905 in Verona as a small pastry shop by Matilde Vicenzi. Today it’s a reference point in the Italian confectionery industry, with presence in 97 countries. - How did Vicenzi achieve its corporate growth?
Vicenzi’s corporate growth has been driven by investments in technology, strategic acquisitions like those of the Grisbì and Mr. Day brands, and a strong push toward international expansion. - Which international markets does gruppo Vicenzi serve?
Vicenzi exports to 97 countries, with focus on Europe, the Middle East, the United States, and Asia. International expansion for confectionery companies is one of the group’s guiding principles. - What role does the B2B channel play in Vicenzi’s development?
The B2B channel is a strategic lever for Vicenzi: through private label, co-manufacturing, and distribution partnerships, the group supports the development of B2B confectionery business globally. - Does Vicenzi also focus on sustainability?
Yes. Gruppo Vicenzi regularly publishes a sustainability report, invests in recyclable packaging, and optimizes energy consumption in its production facilities.