I remember when, as a boy, my grandfather and I would enter the factory: our curiosity would start as soon as we entered the courtyard, where we would silently walk to listen to the whistle of the venting machine that inflated the Tummy pots. My grandfather would explain to me that every whistle was a different pot, and if we didn't hear it regularly, then there was a problem that was slowing down production.
The shearing machine was located on the opposite side to where we entered, first we passed in front of the cleaning machines that seemed to bellow with the effort of the spindles and wheels on the pots.
As we passed, everyone greeted my grandfather and smiled at me. I, at the height of my ten-year-old years, tried to maintain composure as I returned the greeting. We moved among piles of neatly arranged pots and pans, carefully stacked by expert hands, and in the meantime, Mr. Rusca, the plant manager, approached us. He was a very serious man with a confident bearing, and his appearance alone instilled a sense of duty, care, and responsibility.
The tour ended with the warehouse. The manager was Mr. Cartumini "senior," who, as a janitor, lived with his family on the company premises and taught the trade to his son, who in turn became warehouse manager until his well-deserved retirement. Mr. Cartumini "senior" helped load Mr. Tonino's van: how many times over the years have I seen him arrive from Puglia to pick up pots and pans! I was pleased to meet him later in his native Barletta.
When I think that one hundred and twenty years have passed since my great-grandfather, with so much hard work and courage, opened a small factory in Invorio, I can't help but think of all those faces that flash through my mind, each with their own story. It was they who, with their dedication, contributed to the growth of that small factory.
Neither my father nor my grandfather ever encouraged me to follow in their footsteps or taught me how to do this job. After so many years, however, I realize that I learned it by watching them work, observing their commitment and dedication.
I hope to continue their work and continue to contribute to the company's growth and prosperity. It's a commitment I feel is my duty to them and to civil society, which every company contributes to growing, improving, and prospering.
Andrea Barazzoni
President
