Italic Award Recipients 2026
The Italic Award honors the “Ambassadors of Made in Italy” who have distinguished themselves for promoting Italian excellence in the American market, shaping and influencing its lifestyle and culture.
The Italy-America Chamber of Commerce Southeast is proud to announce the Ambassadors of Made in Italy for the 2026 edition:
ANDREA ILLY, CHAIRMAN OF ILLYCAFFE’
Andrea Illy, Chairman of illycaffe’, will be among the recipients of the prestigious Italic Award at the Italic Award Gala.
Founded in Trieste, Italy, in 1933, illycaffè is recognized worldwide as one of the most iconic symbols of Italian excellence.
With a background in chemistry, Andrea Illy joined the family business in the 80s and later led the company’s international expansion, transforming illycaffè into a global premium brand present today in more than 140 countries.
Under his leadership, the company became internationally admired for its commitment to quality, innovation, and sustainability, and among the first Italian companies to achieve B Corp certification.
Through his vision and leadership, Andrea Illy has played a significant role in promoting the excellence of Made in Italy worldwide and strengthening the relationship between Italy and the U.S. market.
VERONICA SQUINZI, CEO OF MAPEI GROUP
Veronica Squinzi, CEO of Mapei Group will be among the recipients of the prestigious Italic Award at the Italic Award Gala.
Founded in 1937, Mapei has grown into one of the world’s leading companies in the field of chemical products for the building industry, with operations in 59 countries, 98 subsidiaries, and 106 production facilities worldwide.
Veronica Squinzi, alongside her brother Marco, represents the third generation of the family leading the company. She has contributed to Mapei’s global development and strategic growth, helping to reinforce its international presence and long-term vision.
Today, the company is recognized globally for its continuous investment in research, innovation, and sustainable development, values that have positioned Mapei as a benchmark of Italian industrial excellence around the world.
Veronica Squinzi’s leadership reflects a modern and international vision of Made in Italy, capable of combining entrepreneurship, innovation, and global impact.