1916
Years 20/50
Years 60/80
Years 80/2010
2016
Today
Contono brothers the origins - Antonino & Luciano Contorno 1916
The cornerstone of the Contorno family is Don Antonino, who, even as a Carabiniere, hinted at future exploits. Now that he's grown up, his figure exudes an irrepressible charisma. He's very tall, and perhaps that's also why he's inclined to gaze into vast horizons.
…So, when he founded the company with Luciano, the question of a company logo, to be printed on the letterhead of company envelopes and lithographed on the boxes, didn't even arise. The logo had to evoke nothing other than the ancestors. So let it be the Rooster! A seal of identity brimming with self-pride, a sliver of narcissism, an iconic idol, a mad desire to publicize one's origins through one's primordial name. The idea worked well, as it contained no ideological prejudice, but rather the desire to continue a narrative begun long ago, with the hidden intent of projecting the family epic into a remote, almost infinite future. This ambition could be interpreted as passion, adventure, a laudable and understandable desire to transform one's family into an immortal legend.
From the pre-war period to the economic revival, the production of Contorno continues to grow
…In 39, the Second World War broke out, and on June 10, 1940, Italy also decided to join. It's easy to imagine the devastating effects on Sicilian society. Since many men went to the front, women, children, and the elderly were left to work the fields, and they did so with immense hardship. Meanwhile , many industrial plants were half-empty or bombed. In Palermo, 45% of homes were destroyed or rendered uninhabitable by bombing raids, first by the French, then by the Anglo-Americans, and finally by the Germans. The Contorno Brothers factory was repeatedly targeted by Flying Fortresses, and although many unexploded bombs were scattered throughout the factory, the factory was hit squarely, though the machinery suffered only minor damage. Thus, despite a thousand difficulties, Contorno production continued; indeed, during the war, it had to cope with the significant increase in the island's demand for preserves. The fact is, it's extremely useful to have a long-life food supply at home , since, especially in cities, many basic foods are only occasionally available, even on the black market. For Don Antonino Contorno, the production obstacles he must face and overcome are enormous; not surprisingly, his achievements have earned him a prestigious honor, coveted by many and awarded to a select few deserving industrialists: the Knight's Cross of the Crown of Italy.
…In particular, it was extremely difficult to obtain supplies not so much of tomatoes or bluefish, but of tinplate and glass bottles, needed for packaging products, and of fuel for boilers. Palermo's food industries were among the largest consumers of coal, and the shortage of coal was unable to meet the pressing demand. Thus, during the war, Sicilian canned food production increased due to increased local consumption. However, the sharp acceleration seen in the North and Campania, where the enormous and lucrative state orders for military supplies converged , was not seen . Overall, Sicilian food exports plummeted from 7.357.000 quintals in 1939 to 250.000 quintals in 1943.
…In the postwar period, Sicilian vegetables bucked the trend of other sectors, regaining market momentum and exceeding pre-war production. The 51 canning factories benefited from this. Thanks to booming exports, the food industry experienced a boom and drove the related industries. In short, food made in Sicily enjoyed enormous success on tables all over the world. Finally, in 1947, Sicily emerged from the depression. The economic boom was such that on October 5, 1947, the Head of State inaugurated the First Mediterranean Fair in Palermo, in which the Contorno company participated thanks to the will and commitment of Gaetano, son of Cav. Antonino, who encouraged him. The young and promising entrepreneur, that same year, was among the founding members of the Assindustria-Palermo section, and also attended both the Association of Industrial Canners of Palermo, …and the Sicilian Vegetable Canners Group, …
The Contorno Brothers expand, exports begin - Great Britain and America
In the difficult times, Attorney Gaetano Contorno is among those who develop critical awareness and undertake a personal metamorphosis. In addition to believing in his professional abilities, he possesses the courage and moral strength necessary to resist flawed and misleading practices. In this, he is supported by his family upbringing, which for him is one with his conscience. This is the dual compass that guides his mind from deep within.
…Mrs. Dora uses progress as a guiding principle, and she seems completely in agreement with the unusual perspective that Gaetano has been proposing to her for some time: to cross, for the first time, the national horizon and venture into the boundless and unknown world of exports. Indeed, it is their open-minded outlook on life that shapes their company strategy.
It's a race toward the future, one that instils, in their hearts, an imperceptible vertigo, the kind that comes with every leap forward, the desire for change, adventure, and infinity. It's with this spirit that the Contornos launch their new business venture (expansion financing): as already mentioned, exporting first to Great Britain and immediately thereafter to the USA. With this courageous plan, Dr. Gaetano launches his passionate challenge, his personal gamble, to the melodrama of life. He intends to realize, with all his energy, what still seems to him an illusory mirage, an imaginative delirium; but imagination is the driving force of invention, fantasy is the creative force.
Of course, there's no shortage of problems. The company's unique dynamism, the comings and goings of men and equipment, and the obvious movement of cash are not ignored by a few piruocchi ri reficu (lice nesting in the seams of jackets, sleeves, and trousers), parasites intent on getting rich without breaking a sweat.
It turns out that, on the night of the feast of Saint Rosalia, July 14, 1960, the safe was stolen from the company office. The thieves, taking advantage of the explosions produced by the fireworks, in the dead of night blasted holes in the surrounding wall with pickaxes, ripped the safe from the wall, and dragged it about fifty meters to the railway line, where, unseen, they completed the robbery.
The company becomes Fratelli Contorno, from a sole proprietorship to a family business
Following the severe crisis in the citrus fruit industry that unfolded in the 70s, Dr. Gaetano Contorno realized that the market was changing rapidly and that it was time to focus more decisively on international markets. Therefore, he felt the need to make a decisive change in the management of the company, wanting to renew its energy, its management mindset, and its future plans. A future that is always a gamble. Thus, he realized what many managers consider to be their greatest experience: watching their company thrive and grow, driven by their children.
In particular, the eldest son, Antonino, is the one of the three brothers who most resembles his grandfather Antonino's physique and charisma; like him, he breaks with preconceptions, choosing to pursue a medical career. And since every choice involves sacrifices, he leaves Agostino and Maurizio to carry on his father's work; nevertheless, he will always take a proactive interest in the company.
…Indeed, in 1980, Dr. Gaetano, with wisdom and generosity, encouraged Agostino and Maurizio to revive F.lli Contorno. Thus began the two's sober debut, guided by someone already possessing extensive experience, the same one who had signaled that the time for change had come. Thus began, in a pleasant way, the gradual handover of the helm from father to sons, so that they could learn to sail with ease through foaming shallows and sudden gales. With them, the fifth generation of Contorno entrepreneurs set sail. And when in 89, lawyer Gaetano closed the sole proprietorship and handed over the entire helm to his sons, from the deck he could proudly and serenely admire his two young sailors, now skilled captains of industry.
One hundred years of Contorno, a century of history of the Fratelli Contorno company
One hundred years from that distant day, when Nino and Luciano Contorno, pioneers, began the frenetic activity of canning, ...it was June the month... in Settecannoli, via Germanese; it was immediately extracted, peeled, sauced and then the renowned caponatina. Afterwards, Gaetano and his nephews continued, ... like yesterday! Quality is the secret of success, kept appreciated by the people, exported to four continents. Today, tradition and innovation are the ever-present combination. Contour is quality, keep that in mind! The future presents new challenges. Mau and Ago are tough and they know it, they come up with tricks every year. And, if He wants, he will guarantee young people work and success for another hundred years.
Centenary
One hundred years since that distant day,
when Nino and Luciano Contorno, pioneers,
began the frenetic activity of canneries,
…it was June the month……..
to Settecannoli, via Germanese;
it was immediately extracted, peeled, sauced
and then the renowned caponata.
Afterwards, Gaetano and his nephews continued, ... like yesterday!
Quality is the secret of success,
kept appreciated by the people,
exported to four continents.
Today, tradition and innovation
they are the ever-present pairing.
Contour is quality, keep that in mind!
The future presents new challenges.
Mau and Ago are tough and they know it,
tricks come out of the hole every year.
And, if He wants,
work and success for young people
for another hundred years it will guarantee.
Contorno Brothers today
The F.lli Contorno company welcomes a new generation of entrepreneurs within it, bringing new perspectives and skills to corporate life. Gaetano Contorno, graduated in Law, son of Agostino Contorno, plays the role of Export Manager. His training provides a solid foundation for managing the complex dynamics of exports, ensuring that F.lli Contorno products reach international markets efficiently and in compliance with regulations. Noemi Contorno, graduated in Economics and Management and daughter of Maurizio Contorno, has taken on the role of HR Manager. Her expertise in human resources management is essential to ensuring a highly qualified and motivated team, ready to support the company's vision and values.
The corporate vision of F.lli Contorno is centered on the future and on attention to contemporary energy issues. A distinctive element of the company is the constant commitment to maintaining the highest quality standards in the selection of raw materials. This dedication is reflected in the preserves produced, which aim to reproduce the authentic smell and flavor of the recipes characteristic of the culinary tradition of our land of origin.
F.lli Contorno also stands out for its innovative communication, which is aimed at an attentive and curious public. Our mission is to share with the world the beauty of what is authentic, bringing to mind simple, genuine sensations and emotions with an almost artisanal touch. We are proud to keep the culinary traditions of our region alive and to offer products that delight the palate and the soul.
With the leadership of Gaetano and Noemi Contorno, F.lli Contorno looks to the future with determination, always keeping alive the love for our roots and for the quality of our preserves.
Fratelli Contono the origins – Antonino & Luciano Contorno 1916
The cornerstone of the Contorno family is Don Antonino, who, even as a Carabiniere, hinted at future exploits. Now that he's grown up, his figure exudes an irrepressible charisma. He's very tall, and perhaps that's also why he's inclined to gaze into vast horizons.
…So, when he founded the company with Luciano, the question of a company logo, to be printed on the letterhead of company envelopes and lithographed on the boxes, didn't even arise. The logo had to evoke nothing other than the ancestors. So let it be the Rooster! A seal of identity brimming with self-pride, a sliver of narcissism, an iconic idol, a mad desire to publicize one's origins through one's primordial name. The idea worked well, as it contained no ideological prejudice, but rather the desire to continue a narrative begun long ago, with the hidden intent of projecting the family epic into a remote, almost infinite future. This ambition could be interpreted as passion, adventure, a laudable and understandable desire to transform one's family into an immortal legend.
From the pre-war period to the economic revival, the production of Contorno continues to grow
…In 39, the Second World War broke out, and on June 10, 1940, Italy also decided to join. It's easy to imagine the devastating effects on Sicilian society. Since many men went to the front, women, children, and the elderly were left to work the fields, and they did so with immense hardship. Meanwhile , many industrial plants were half-empty or bombed. In Palermo, 45% of homes were destroyed or rendered uninhabitable by bombing raids, first by the French, then by the Anglo-Americans, and finally by the Germans. The Contorno Brothers factory was repeatedly targeted by Flying Fortresses, and although many unexploded bombs were scattered throughout the factory, the factory was hit squarely, though the machinery suffered only minor damage. Thus, despite a thousand difficulties, Contorno production continued; indeed, during the war, it had to cope with the significant increase in the island's demand for preserves. The fact is, it's extremely useful to have a long-life food supply at home , since, especially in cities, many basic foods are only occasionally available, even on the black market. For Don Antonino Contorno, the production obstacles he must face and overcome are enormous; not surprisingly, his achievements have earned him a prestigious honor, coveted by many and awarded to a select few deserving industrialists: the Knight's Cross of the Crown of Italy.
…In particular, it was extremely difficult to obtain supplies not so much of tomatoes or bluefish, but of tinplate and glass bottles, needed for packaging products, and of fuel for boilers. Palermo's food industries were among the largest consumers of coal, and the shortage of coal was unable to meet the pressing demand. Thus, during the war, Sicilian canned food production increased due to increased local consumption. However, the sharp acceleration seen in the North and Campania, where the enormous and lucrative state orders for military supplies converged , was not seen . Overall, Sicilian food exports plummeted from 7.357.000 quintals in 1939 to 250.000 quintals in 1943.
…In the postwar period, Sicilian vegetables bucked the trend of other sectors, regaining market momentum and exceeding pre-war production. The 51 canning factories benefited from this. Thanks to booming exports, the food industry experienced a boom and drove the related industries. In short, food made in Sicily enjoyed enormous success on tables all over the world. Finally, in 1947, Sicily emerged from the depression. The economic boom was such that on October 5, 1947, the Head of State inaugurated the First Mediterranean Fair in Palermo, in which the Contorno company participated thanks to the will and commitment of Gaetano, son of Cav. Antonino, who encouraged him. The young and promising entrepreneur, that same year, was among the founding members of the Assindustria-Palermo section, and also attended both the Association of Industrial Canners of Palermo, …and the Sicilian Vegetable Canners Group, …
The Contorno Brothers expand, exports begin - Great Britain and America
In the difficult times, Attorney Gaetano Contorno is among those who develop critical awareness and undertake a personal metamorphosis. In addition to believing in his professional abilities, he possesses the courage and moral strength necessary to resist flawed and misleading practices. In this, he is supported by his family upbringing, which for him is one with his conscience. This is the dual compass that guides his mind from deep within.
…Mrs. Dora uses progress as a guiding principle, and she seems completely in agreement with the unusual perspective that Gaetano has been proposing to her for some time: to cross, for the first time, the national horizon and venture into the boundless and unknown world of exports. Indeed, it is their open-minded outlook on life that shapes their company strategy.
It's a race toward the future, one that instils, in their hearts, an imperceptible vertigo, the kind that comes with every leap forward, the desire for change, adventure, and infinity. It's with this spirit that the Contornos launch their new business venture (expansion financing): as already mentioned, exporting first to Great Britain and immediately thereafter to the USA. With this courageous plan, Dr. Gaetano launches his passionate challenge, his personal gamble, to the melodrama of life. He intends to realize, with all his energy, what still seems to him an illusory mirage, an imaginative delirium; but imagination is the driving force of invention, fantasy is the creative force.
Of course, there's no shortage of problems. The company's unique dynamism, the comings and goings of men and equipment, and the obvious movement of cash are not ignored by a few piruocchi ri reficu (lice nesting in the seams of jackets, sleeves, and trousers), parasites intent on getting rich without breaking a sweat.
It turns out that, on the night of the feast of Saint Rosalia, July 14, 1960, the safe was stolen from the company office. The thieves, taking advantage of the explosions produced by the fireworks, in the dead of night blasted holes in the surrounding wall with pickaxes, ripped the safe from the wall, and dragged it about fifty meters to the railway line, where, unseen, they completed the robbery.
The company becomes Fratelli Contorno, from a sole proprietorship to a family business
Following the severe crisis in the citrus fruit industry that unfolded in the 70s, Dr. Gaetano Contorno realized that the market was changing rapidly and that it was time to focus more decisively on international markets. Therefore, he felt the need to make a decisive change in the management of the company, wanting to renew its energy, its management mindset, and its future plans. A future that is always a gamble. Thus, he realized what many managers consider to be their greatest experience: watching their company thrive and grow, driven by their children.
In particular, the eldest son, Antonino, is the one of the three brothers who most resembles his grandfather Antonino's physique and charisma; like him, he breaks with preconceptions, choosing to pursue a medical career. And since every choice involves sacrifices, he leaves Agostino and Maurizio to carry on his father's work; nevertheless, he will always take a proactive interest in the company.
…Indeed, in 1980, Dr. Gaetano, with wisdom and generosity, encouraged Agostino and Maurizio to revive F.lli Contorno. Thus began the two's sober debut, guided by someone already possessing extensive experience, the same one who had signaled that the time for change had come. Thus began, in a pleasant way, the gradual handover of the helm from father to sons, so that they could learn to sail with ease through foaming shallows and sudden gales. With them, the fifth generation of Contorno entrepreneurs set sail. And when in 89, lawyer Gaetano closed the sole proprietorship and handed over the entire helm to his sons, from the deck he could proudly and serenely admire his two young sailors, now skilled captains of industry.
One hundred years of Contorno, a century of history of the Fratelli Contorno company
One hundred years from that distant day, when Nino and Luciano Contorno, pioneers, began the frenetic activity of canning, ...it was June the month... in Settecannoli, via Germanese; it was immediately extracted, peeled, sauced and then the renowned caponatina. Afterwards, Gaetano and his nephews continued, ... like yesterday! Quality is the secret of success, kept appreciated by the people, exported to four continents. Today, tradition and innovation are the ever-present combination. Contour is quality, keep that in mind! The future presents new challenges. Mau and Ago are tough and they know it, they come up with tricks every year. And, if He wants, he will guarantee young people work and success for another hundred years.
Centenary
One hundred years since that distant day,
when Nino and Luciano Contorno, pioneers,
began the frenetic activity of canneries,
…it was June the month……..
to Settecannoli, via Germanese;
it was immediately extracted, peeled, sauced
and then the renowned caponata.
Afterwards, Gaetano and his nephews continued, ... like yesterday!
Quality is the secret of success,
kept appreciated by the people,
exported to four continents.
Today, tradition and innovation
they are the ever-present pairing.
Contour is quality, keep that in mind!
The future presents new challenges.
Mau and Ago are tough and they know it,
tricks come out of the hole every year.
And, if He wants,
work and success for young people
for another hundred years it will guarantee.