At a gala dinner held in Johannesburg, Antonio Di Loreto was voted the 2016 Businessperson of the Year while Ansaldo Energia-Fata won the Business Enterprise of the Year.
Matthew Giuricich was honoured with a Lifetime Recognition Award while Gianni Ravazzotti was awarded the Chairperson’s Excellence accolade.
Winners were drawn from retail, engineering, construction, technology and supply industries.
The awards, dubbed FNB Business Excellence Awards, were organised by the bank and co-hosted by Italian-South African Chamber of Trade and Industries at Wanderers Club on Thursday.
Addressing the gathering, FNB Business Chief Executive Officer, Michael Vacy-Lyle, said his financial institution was delighted to recognise the contribution by Italian-South African businesses towards the country’s economic growth.
“The year 2016 has been challenging for the local economy. So we are pleased to see that these businesses were able to thrive in the midst of a tough operating environment. Congratulations to all winners and may they continue to to flourish in their respective fields,” said Vacy-Lyle.
Speaking at the same ceremony, Italian Ambassador to South Africa, Pietro Giovanni Donnici, applauded the chamber for promoting business between the two countries.
He said the relations between the two countries were cordial but partnerships would be explored further.
Italian Consul-General, Marco Petacco, attended the event where singer, songwriter and producer, Patrizio Buanne, thrilled the guests.
– CAJ News