Re-Organization of the IACCSE in Atlanta

The Georgia Chapter of the IACCSE has recently reorganized its Executive Committee, which now consists of five well-respected entrepreneurs and professionals from the Atlanta area.

Emanuela Barzaghi, CEO of L&S Lighting Corp, will retain her position as Vice President of the IACCSE Georgia Chapter. She will be supported by four other committee members: Stefania Poli, COO of Omer USA Inc.; Filiberto Calascibetta, CPA & Partner of Rödl & Partner USA; Franco Rossi, President of Aquafil USA Inc.; and Giorgio Carrera, CEO of FAE US Inc.

The committee has appointed Mr. Nicola Vidali as Managing Director of the IACCSE- Georgia Chapter.  

Mr. Vidali brings over 35 years of experience leading various marketing and communication projects in the US. A resident of Atlanta since 1993, Nicola is deeply involved in educational, social, and civic initiatives. This appointment underscores the commitment of the Executive Committee to work for the development of a the Chapter in a state where the Italian business community has a strong  relevance.

Mr. Vidali will be supported by the Project Manager, Ms. Fabiana Calogero.

To contact the IACCSE Georgia Chapter, please send an email to atl@iaccse.com

Why More Companies Are Putting Lego Bricks in the Office

By Skillme Up

This is the title of an interesting article that appeared in the Wall Street Journal (www.wsj.com/articles/why-more-companies-are-putting-lego-bricks-in-the-office-11661638344) some time ago, explaining why “Executives believe that bringing colorful brick toys helps with creativity, anxiety, and communication.

In recent years, businesses have shifted their approach to employee engagement, team building, and skill development through the use of “Serious Play”. So, after two decades and numerous workshops globally, LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® seems to have finally achieved the recognition it deserves in terms of universal acceptance as an innovative and effective methodology.

Although using LEGO® bricks in business may seem unusual, LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® fosters strategic thinking, idea generation, and effective communication.

It’s rooted in research showing that hands-on, minds-on learning enhances understanding, aligning with the complex adaptive system view of the world.

Since becoming certified in 2016, we been passionate about this methodology, trying to apply/integrate it in various contexts, including sales, which is my field of expertise, creating modules like “handling objections,” “value selling,” and “customer journey.”

This approach engages salespeople who may find traditional classroom settings uninspiring. Salespeople possess vast knowledge about markets, customers, products, and techniques, but often struggle to apply it effectively. LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® bridges this gap by activating their creativity and problem-solving abilities, unlocking hidden treasures of insight and innovation.

LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® revolutionizes thinking processes, unveiling and reshaping ingrained beliefs and values to create a shared understanding.

It fosters creativity and innovation by providing a non-judgmental space for exploring new ideas. Through hands-on building, individuals visually represent abstract concepts, leading to breakthrough insights.

3D construction enables the simulation of real-world scenarios, clarifying strategies previously obscured. This experiential learning enhances problem-solving skills and confidence.

Beyond its practical benefits, LSP also impacts organizational culture, reinforcing core values and fostering unity. This shared experience leads to a more cohesive workplace culture, driving organizational success in today’s fast-paced business landscape.

IF YOU ARE MATURE ENOUGH TO PLAYjoin Skillmeup on Apr 26th for a free demo at the IACCSE office.

Enrollment is limited to a maximum of 12 participants, so secure your spot now!

In the meantime, if you want to learn more, please get in touch with me at rachele.skillmeup@gmail.com.

Leadership Transition at Italy-America Chamber of Commerce Southeast

After serving for more than seven years, President Tommaso Cardana has decided to step down with the conviction that he has fulfilled the primary objectives he set for the organization and to fully comply with the spirit of the new By-Laws of the Chamber that now establish a 6 years limit term for a President.

The leadership of the Italy-America Chamber of Commerce Southeast (IACCSE) passes to another distinguished Italian entrepreneur, Graziano Sbroggio’, founder and owner of Graspa Group, one of the most successful restaurants’ groups in South Florida.

Cardana will continue to serve as a Board member.

“This decision was not easy” stated Cardana. “Serving as the chamber’s president has been a tremendous honor and one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. I am proud of all we have achieved over the past years. I am confident that the Chamber will continue to flourish under Graziano Sbroggio’s leadership.”

During Mr. Cardana tenure as President, the IACCSE grew significantly reaching an historic milestone of more than 300 members, launched new and successful signature events, achieved positive financial results year after year, broadened its membership base across the Southeast with the opening of new chapters in major cities of the region, inaugurated a prestigious new office space in Brickell, and launched the Italian Lab project.

Graziano Sbroggio’ has been elected unanimously by the Board of Directors as new IACCSE President until the new board elections, that will take place in June 2025.

Mr. Sbroggio’ brings over 26 years of entrepreneurial experience, as he runs of one of Miami’s most successful restaurant groups. He has been a chamber member since the year 2000.

“I accepted this position because I believe in the crucial role the Chamber plays in connecting Italian and American businesses and in giving adequate representation to the Italian entrepreneurial community in the U.S. Southeast” said Sbroggio’ “Numerous presidents have led before me, each contributing uniquely to the chamber. I am honored to continue this legacy and I hope to have the support of as many people as possible, as a thriving organization is always the result of a collective effort”.

Following this leadership transition, the IACCSE Board of Directors is as follows: Mr. Graziano Sbroggio, (Owner of Graspa Group) – President; Mr. Claudio da Soller, (Senior Vice President and General Manager at Pininfarina of America Corp) – Executive Vice-President; Mrs. Dania Maccaferri, (CEO of Beghelli North America) – Vice President; Mr. Giacomo Bossa, (partner at Barakat + Bossa) – Secretary; Mr. Alberto Portolani, CEO of Neri North America Corp – Treasurer; with Mr. Costantino Cicchelli, CEO at Barba Skin Clinic, Mr. Gianluca Fontani, President of Man-Super!, Mr. Antonello Corrado, Partner of EXP Legal, Ms. Stefania Poli, COO of Omer USA, Mr. Fernando Rodriguez, Executive Vice President of A Custom Brokerage, and Tommaso Cardana, President of Tomson Hospitality, serving as Directors.

Mr. Graziano Sbroggio’

Mr. Tommaso Cardana

Omer USA Inc is looking for a Junior Service Specialist

Job Description

Omer USA Inc is currently seeking a highly organized and motivated Junior Service Specialist to join our team. This individual will play a key role in managing inland transportation, coordinating paperwork, and providing support to both our internal team and our valued customers. With a focus on efficiency and effective communication, the Junior Service Specialist will ensure smooth operations within the service department.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Inland Transport Management: Oversee the organization and management of inland transportation, ensuring timely and efficient delivery of goods and services.
  • Paperwork Organization: Handle all necessary paperwork related to service operations, including but not limited to transport documents, service reports, and customer communication.
  • Spare Parts Quotations and Offers: Prepare and provide quotations for spare parts, negotiate prices and terms with clients and keeping contact with main supplier in Italy, and manage the overall spare parts ordering process.
  • Customer Communications: Serve as the primary point of contact for customers, addressing inquiries, providing updates, and ensuring customer satisfaction throughout the service process.
  • Technical Support Coordination: Manage incoming technical support calls, log details, create tickets in the CRM system, and assign tasks and calls to the technical team for resolution.
  • Inventory and Spare Parts Management: Oversee the inventory of spare parts, ensuring availability and timely restocking to meet service needs.
  • Warehouse Coordination: Coordinate with the warehouse team to ensure smooth operations, including the receipt, storage, and dispatch of goods.
  • Travel and Service Call Organization: Plan and organize travel arrangements and service calls for technical staff, ensuring efficient scheduling and resource allocation.

Required Skills & Experience

  • Minimum 2 years of customer service experience
  • Experience with Microsoft Office including Excel and Word and CRM System
  • Excellent communication skills and interpersonal skills
  • Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
  • Ability to change priorities quickly and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
  • A team player who works well with others.
  • Detail-oriented: Meticulous attention to detail in all aspects of work, from managing communications to organizing inventory.
  • Ability to travel domestically up to 25% of the time.


About Omer USA Inc.
OMER is the #1 solution in elevation!  OMER provides innovative, safe, and robust designs for light-duty vehicle lifts, heavy-duty vehicle lifts, and parking systems.  Our ALI Certified product portfolio includes one of the largest varieties of HD platform lifts, alignment racks, and scissor-style specialty lifts available in the North American market.

For more details and to apply for this job position, please email your resume to s.poli@omerlift.com  (please make sure to copy info@iacc-miami.com in the same email) 

EXHIBITORS DIRECTORY

GOLD EXHIBITORS

RAK Porcelain USA (www.rakporcelain.com)

RAK Porcelain specializes in designing and supplying exquisite dinnerware, flatware, and glassware to over 165 countries within the hospitality industry. Headquartered in United Arab Emirates, we manufacture over 24 million pieces of tabletop annually, enabling us to raise the bar of quality and design.  We thrive to create trends, not follow them. We are setting the new standard in tabletop.


Steelite International (www.steelite.com)

Steelite International is the leading manufacturer & supplier of award-winning tabletop, buffet, and lighting solutions for the global hospitality industry. Steelite offers a unique solution for any venue from commercial catering and hotel banqueting to leisure markets and casual restaurants. Serving over 140 countries worldwide, Steelite is committed to providing the best in functionality and design while minimizing the effect on the environment.


TrufflEat&CaviarEat  (www.luxureat.com)

TrufflEat&CaviarEat is a leading company in the Italian gourmet food sector, specializing in high-end products such as fine truffles and caviar. Founded on a passion for authentic Italian cuisine, the company is committed to culinary excellence, offering products that embody tradition, taste, and innovation. In addition to maintaining high standards of quality and sustainability, TrufflEat&CaviarEat values diversity with halal and kosher products and promotes responsible farming practices.


Vignoli Food and Miami Olive Oil (www.vignolifood.com)

Vignoli Food and Miami Olive Oil is a group of companies specialized in producing Olive Oil, Balsamic Vinegars, and other Italian specialties, with operations in both Italy and the U.S. They offer a “farm to table” experience with premium quality and competitive prices on a variety of products, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Infused Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Balsamic Vinegar of Modena IGP, Infused Balsamic Vinegars and a wide selection of Gourmet olives and Italian Pantry.

Miami Olive Oil & Beyond LLC, based in Miramar, FL, handles on-site bottling and distribution across the U.S. under the brand Di Augusto – Sapori della Vita – and Private label for the Food Service and Retail industries.

Vignoli Food, also located in Miramar, boasts over 25 years of experience in olive oil indsutry, led by Claudio Vignoli, an internationally acclaimed Oleologist, Olive Oil Sommelier, and certified Master Miller.

Their focus is on delivering the essence of Italian cuisine through meticulously crafted products sourced from the finest olives in Italy, employing a unique model of hand-selecting olives while still on the tree to ensure unparalleled quality and adaptability to climate change challenges.


SILVER EXHIBITORS


Avignonesi  (www.avignonesi.it)

Avignonesi, part of the Avignonesi Group, aspires to be a good ancestor by nurturing the land, creating a better world, and leading in the context of the “good wine industry”. Their ecosystem thrives on organic and biodynamic agriculture, sustainable distribution systems, and consumer education. With transparency and innovation, they work toward long-term goals. Avignonesi’s commitment extends beyond wine production to hospitality, embodying the ancient Greek concept of “kalòs kagathòs”—the beautiful and the good. Virginie Saverys, the driving force behind Avignonesi, transformed it into Italy’s largest biodynamic winery.


De Cecco (www.dececco.com)

De Cecco is the leader in the imported pasta category in the USA. Their Company has been in the USA for 130 years. Family owned by the De Cecco family, they proudly produced 100% Italian Made Pasta with their De Cecco Method: Best Durum Wheat from around the world, Coarse Semolina, Slow Drying, cold Majella Water & Coarse texture.

Divino Italy (https://divinoitaly.com)

DiVino Italy, with over a decade of presence in the Italian market, specializes in supporting SMEs seeking to expand their product reach internationally. It serves as a vital link between Italian suppliers and international Buyers, facilitating business connections and offering tailored consultancy services. Through active engagement with international institutional bodies and participation in global events, DiVino Italy actively promotes the excellence of Italian enogastronomy worldwide.


Fresca & Buona (www.frescaebuona.it)

Fresca & Buona, the fresh pasta brand by Pasta Reggia, offers a wide selection of high-quality products. From stuffed to bronze-drawn pasta, it caters to the tastes of all fresh pasta enthusiasts. The brand’s commitment to traditional pasta craftsmanship ensures that each product reflects the flavors of authentic Italian culture. Whether it’s regional specialties or egg-based delicacies, Fresca & Buona delivers excellence using the latest production technologies.


Molino Grassi (www.molinograssi.it )

Established in 1934, Molino Grassi is the story of a family company, who for three generation, have created, developed and given continuity to an ambitious project: to become leaders in soft and durum wheat organic products, focusing using only 100% Organic Italian Wheat and heritage ancient wheat variety, developing relationship with more than 300 farmers around Italy, from Sicily to Piedmont, from Tuscany to Emilia -Romagna. 


Nonna Enterprises (https://nonnalive.com/)

Nonna Live is a culinary platform that offers virtual pasta-making classes, focusing on traditional Italian recipes. Founded by Chiara and her grandmother, Nonna Nerina, the company aims to share the art of homemade pasta with participants worldwide. At Nonna Live, their mission lies in preserving the art of traditional Italian recipes, with a focus on the craft of homemade pasta. Through live and on-demand virtual classes, participants are guided through the step-by-step process of creating perfect pasta. During the 2-3 hour sessions, participants learn to knead, roll, and shape pasta dough, infusing it with love and tradition. Private classes are also available, making Nonna Live a popular choice for team-building experiences among companies like Google, Spotify, Microsoft, and SalesForce.

 

Pansardo (www.pansardo.com)

Pansardo, a cherished Sardinian family business, brings the aromatic flavors of their island to the United States. Established in 1860, their legacy spans generations, rooted in unwavering commitment to quality. Pansardo liqueur stands out for its unmistakable flavor, achieved through the exclusive use of natural ingredients. Their herb and spice alchemy involves meticulously grinding approximately 70 botanicals, including warm Ceylon cinnamon, elegant Florentine iris, traditional Italian Apennine juniper, thriving Samnite mint, and the crown jewel—saffron. The resulting elixir, marrying herb distillate with saffron, boasts a characteristic yellow hue. Pansardo’s allure lies in its adaptability: sip it neat, enjoy it icy, or elevate cocktails with a dash of Pansardo magic. Embark on a sensory voyage where tradition meets innovation, and Italy whispers its secrets.


Pranzo (www.eatpranzo.com)

Pranzo with a passion for Mediterranean flavors, has curated a selection of handpicked foods that embody the essence of Italian cuisine. Whether customers are seasoned home cooks or culinary novices, Pranzo invites them to eat like Italians and savor the simple pleasures of life. Founded by a team of Italian friends who share a common love for flavorful, simple, and clean dishes that define their heritage, Pranzo’s mission is to bring those cherished flavors to tables while paying homage to their beloved nonna’s culinary wisdom. Pranzo believes in embracing simplicity without sacrificing quality. “Italian food isn’t about laborious cooking; it’s about celebrating ingredients, traditions, and the joy of sharing a meal with loved ones.” Their curated range of products reflects the heart and soul of Italy: Imported Italian Pasta: From linguine to gnocchi, extra Virgin Olive Oil, balsamic vinegar, marinara Sauce, olives, and calabrian Peppers.


Prime Line Coffee and Tea Division (www.primelinecoffee.com)

Prime Line Distributors was founded in 1981, in South Florida by Mr. Gianni Landi, an immigrant from Italy with more than 50 years of experience in the specialty food industry. Mr. Landi brought with him the food culture and traditions of the old world.

His philosophy conveys that cooking is an art, and appreciating the quality and true distinction of fine food is essential. Prime Line welcomes you to enjoy their quality products and their commitment  to offer an excellent service .


San Marzano (www.sanmarzano.com)

San Marzano is more than just a winery; it represents a lifestyle brand that embodies a sense of culture, joy, and celebration. Renowned for an artsy, experimental style that infuses wines with a unique personality that goes beyond a single terroir, it embodies a different approach to winemaking in Puglia, rooted in dual core values: respect and modernity. Respect for the land and a tradition deeply rooted in agriculture, with a refined winemaking approach that delivers elegance and a clean taste. The winery was pivotal in elevating the prestige and reputation of Primitivo, crafting world-class wines and iconic labels that can compete internationally with the most important appellations.


Oleificio Sardelli S.p.A (https://sardelli.it)

Oleificio Sardelli S.p.A. is a company founded in 1956 by Guido Sardelli specialized in production and marketing of best quality olive oils and still exclusively owned by the Sardelli family. Oleificio Sardelli also offers wines and oils produced by Fattoria di Doccia, a wide organic farm owned by Sardelli family in the heart of Toscany.

 

Strega Liqueur (www.strega.it/en)

Created in 1860, Strega liqueur is one of the most famous Italian liqueurs, it is unique and unmistakable for its taste, thanks to the exclusive use of natural ingredients. Its processing starts with the grinding of about 70 herbs and spices, they are being selected from all over the world, and each one of them has unique properties. Among these herbs we find Ceylon cinnamon, Florentine iris, Italian Apennine juniper, Samnite mint, which grows along the riverbanks in the whole region. The liqueur gets its characteristic yellow colour from the precious Saffron that is added to the herb distillate. Its unique, yet versatile flavour can be enjoyed in many ways: neat, icy or mixed in more sophisticated long drinks and cocktails.


Unox (www.unox.com)

Inventor of the First ever self-washing Speed Combi Oven, UNOX is a leading global manufacturer of professional ovens specializing in Combi and Speed oven technologies as well as Service Temperature Food Preservation Systems. UNOX creates and offers state-of-the-art ovens, services, and experiences, inspired by Inventive Simplification and driven by the pursuit of perfection. UNOX, The taste of building success.


 


PARTNERS

Acqua Panna San Pellegrino (www.acquapanna.com/us)

450gradi (https://450gradipizzerias.com/)

Casa D’Angelo (https://cangelomulberry.com)

Gelato&Co (https://florida.gelatoeco.com/)

Gioia Eat (https://gioiaeat.com)

Il Duomo dei Sapori (https://ilduomodeisapori.com)

La Leggenda (https://laleggendapizzeria.com)

Mamma Leone Bakery (https://mammaleonebakery.com/)

Mastri Birrai Umbri (www.mastribirraiumbri.com)

Martini & Rossi (www.martini.com/us/en/)

Mosaico (https://mosaicosomi.com/

O’Munaciello (www.munaciello.com

Orvino Wine (https://orvinowine.com)

Pasta e Basta (www.pastaebastaofamherst.com)

Pasta Market Handmade (https://pastamarkethandmade.com)

Paolo Fontanot (https://paolofontanot.com)

Portosole (https://portosolemiami.com)

Rosetta Bakery (www.rosettabakery.com)

Salumeria 104 (www.salumeria104.com)    

Sardomare Catering & Events (https://sardomarecatering.com/)

Sophia Design District  (https://sofiamiamidd.com)

Spiris (www.sprispizza.com)    

Valdo (https://it.valdo.com)

Voga Italia (https://vogaitalia.com)

Zucca (https://zuccamiami.com)


MEDIA PARTNER

Foodie Tribe (https://foodietribe.com)


 

 

Italian Exports to the United States Continue to Grow

In 2023, Italian exports to the USA saw another significant increase (+5.4%) compared to 2022setting a new historical record for the absolute value of our exports across the ocean, reaching $72.9 billion. The performance of Italian exports allowed Italy to maintain its position in the ranking of US trading partners.

Italy ranked as the 11th largest supplier to the United States, and also slightly increased its market share (2.3%) compared to 2.2% in 2022. The leading sectors of our exports were: Machinery, Fashion and Accessories, Chemicals and Pharmaceuticals, Transportation, Agri-food and Beverages.

In this very positive context, Italian exports to Florida are growing at a much faster rate (+12% compared to 2022) compared to the US average, reaching a value of $3.89 billion.

Also in 2023, Italy recorded a trade surplus with the United States of a whopping $44 billion.

Source: US Census, Italian Trade Agency

Agreement between IACCSE and Navigo Toscana

The IACCSE has recently signed a significant agreement with Navigo Toscana – www.navigotoscana.it (based in Viareggio), one of the largest network of nautical companies in Italy, and one of the most important in Europe.

The aim of this agreement is to facilitate the establishment in Florida of five Italian marine industry suppliers. 

The Italian companies involved in this project are:

 ATS – https://atsyachtservice.com

• Yachtalia – www.yachtalia.com

SafeHavenYachting-www.safehavenyachting.com (website under update) 

 Ideagroup – (website under construction) 

• Senjoy – www.senjoyboats.com

The project encompasses participation in various trade shows, support for the creation of USA branches for these companies, as well as establishing an operational desk for Consorzio Navigo within our Italian Lab space.

Throughout 2024, the Chamber will also create networking opportunities for Navigo Toscana companies. This will be achieved through a series of meetings with industry associations in South Florida, as well as with other Italian companies already active in the yacht sector in the State.

Meet US Roadshow 2024 | March 18-21, 2024

WHEN March 18 – 21, 2024


WHERE Napoli, Roma, Prato, Treviso


The IACCSE is getting ready to organize the 4th edition of the “MEET US Roadshow in Italy” in March 2024. 

The initiative, which will be held in four important Italian cities: Naples (March 18th) – Rome (March 19th) – Prato (March 20thand Treviso ( March 21st), is intended for those Italian companies interested in exploring new opportunities in the US market: attendees will be provided with detailed information on topics relating to strategic, commercial, administrative, financial, and fiscal matters linked to the expansion of Italian businesses in the US market.

Four days and four conferences to inform and support all those Italian companies interested in exploring new business opportunities in the USA while taking advantage of the experience of the IACCSE and selected speakers.

We would like to thank all the companies that have contributed to the organization of these event.

They are: 

A special thank you goes to the local partners of our 4 sessions: 

Regione Campania (Department of Productive activities), 

Federlazio

Unioncamere

Assocamerestero

Confindustria Toscana Nord

Camera di Commercio Treviso-Belluno 

Venicepromex

The event will be a great opportunity for Italian SMEs to learn more about the most important aspects relating to expansion on growing markets such as the US Southeast.

For more information about the program and registrations please visit the webpage: https://bec.iaccse.com/meet_us_2024/

Please note: registration is free of charge, but is mandatory.

Access is reserved to representatives of Italian companies interested in exporting or investing in the USA. 

Italy’s presence grows in Miami

MSC Group’s New Headquarters in Downtown Miami

MSC Group has announced the development of its new headquarters in Downtown Miami. The MSC Group’s $100 million investment will bring together approximately 250 employees from MSC Cargo, MSC Cruises, and Explora Journeys under one roof in a state-of-the-art facility.

The 130,000 sqf. offices will support the ongoing growth of MSC in the North American market. According to the economic impact analysis conducted by Miami-Dade County, this latest development by the MSC Group will generate 668 direct and indirect jobs over the next three years. It will also provide $65.2 million annually in terms of recurring direct economic impact (gross regional product).

MSC is also building a next-generation cruise terminal at PortMiami, set to become the largest in North America once completed by the end of the year. The project has been commissioned to Fincantieri Infrastructures.

The new terminal will feature a four-story building capable of accommodating 36,000 passenger movements per day and will have sufficient docking space to serve three state-of-the-art ships simultaneously.

Cosmoprof Launches a New Trade Show in Miami

BolognaFiere will present the inaugural edition of Cosmoprof North America at the Miami Beach Convention Center. The event is scheduled from January 23 to 25, 2024, as a new spinoff of the largest cosmetic B2B trade show held annually in Bologna (Italy). While the event on the west coast, Cosmoprof North America, will remain in Las Vegas, the new edition on the east coast, Cosmoprof North America – Miami, will primarily focus on the Hispanic market.

Cosmoprof North America attracts beauty industry professionals from around the world and hosts presentations and product launches for all segments of the industry. In 2022, over 1,100 exhibitors participated in the Las Vegas edition, solidifying the region as a strategic market for business development. 32,000 retailers, buyers, distributors, brands, suppliers, and journalists gathered in Las Vegas to discover new product launches and explore new business opportunities.

From January 23 to 25, 2024, Cosmoprof North America – Miami will be a new destination for cosmetic industry professionals, aiming to replicate the success of other Cosmoprof events in Bologna, Hong Kong, Bangkok, Mumbai, and Las Vegas.

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