Fendi to open a factory in Tuscany too

In the global luxury economy, which extends from America to China, Tuscany plays an essential role as a production centre, especially when it comes to leather goods, thanks to its centuries-old artisan tradition. The announcement of the upcoming opening of a Balenciaga factory in Cerreto Guidi, which was reported last week, was followed by that of Fendi, which yesterday laid the foundations of a new factory in Bagno a Ripoli, just outside Florence.

The factory will be opened in 2022, will serve as a production centre for the brand's leather goods and also as a place of training of the brand's artisans producing 133 new jobs. 

The architects of the Milanese studio Piuarch will take care of the design of a 57 million euro complex that will cover an eight-hectare surface that previously housed the Brunelleschi Furnace. Fendi CEO Serge Brunschwig planted an oak tree for the occasion – a symbol of dignity but also a tribute to the biodiversity of the places. The brand's goal is to obtain LEED Platinum certification for its establishment and will also include a park, kindergarten and play area.