The house, synonymous with luxury Italian craftsmanship, was founded in 1978 in the picturesque Solomeo region of central Italy. Renowned for its high-quality cashmere fabrics, the company emphasises innovation alongside a traditional approach to local craftsmanship. In recent years, its production has significantly increased, resulting in substantial sales worldwide. Brunello`s interest in philosophy and the humanities was sparked during his studies at the University of Perugia, when he and his fellow students spent a lot of time in local cafes engaging in conversations on various topics. These conversations ultimately led him to develop an interest in fashion. At the age of 25, inspired by the vibrant wool sweaters of the Italian clothing group Benetton, he decided to create a collection of cashmere sweaters in bright colours. With no funds available, he convinced a merchant he knew to sell him a small quantity of this expensive wool, which he then used to craft a modest collection that was met with great success in northern Italy.
The philosophy of Humanist or `humanist capitalism`, as the Italian businessman calls it, is integral to his company`s operations. He emphasises employee well-being, offering salaries that are 20% higher than those of comparable companies in the industry, along with long lunch breaks and a strict eight-hour workday with no overtime. These ethical values are rare, especially in the relentless fashion industry, which is often criticised for its inhumane practices and exploitation of marginalised social groups. On a personal level, this represents a significant development for a young man who initially had to move to Germany without any connections in order to find customers early at his career, as German clients were known for their timely payments, unlike their Italian counterparts. He fondly remembers the support he received from his German partners, which helped him regain his footing and continue the business he has started.
Brunello Cucinelli is headquartered in a 14th-century castle, which symbolises its commitment to handcrafted quality and the `Made in Italy` ethos. Today, the company employs nearly 750 people across various parts of Italy and around the world, adhering to strict work hour policies. In meetings, mobile phones are prohibited and business calls are forbidden on weekends, and a small library is maintained at the headquarters. The Italian brand`s product range includes high-quality cashmere collections, ready-to-wear garments, casual chic pieces, and accessories for both men and women, all designed to embody a refined, understated, and versatile everyday style. The brand has also expanded into the high-end eyewear sector and ventured into fragrance production in collaboration with Eutoitalia. He he states, "Luxury should be something beautiful, well-made, exclusive, and rare across all product categories; thus, wer maintain the same philosophy for eyewear and perfumes".
In an interview, he excitedly recalled: "I still fondly remember that good man and great professional from whom I asked to purchase about twenty kilos of ecru cashmere yarn—a quantity sufficient to make around sixty sweaters. He even asked me to pay him when I earned my first money, because, as he said, he knew I was an honest young man."
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