Comerio Ercole on Forbes: A History of Values, People and Innovation
We are happy to share that Comerio Ercole has been featured in Forbes Italy‘s special project “Enterprises of Peace,” dedicated to companies that combine industrial excellence with strong human and social values.
This recognition comes at a special time, as we celebrate 140 years of history-a history built on innovation, respect for people and a long-term vision based on responsibility. Forbes not only talked about our achievements, but also wanted to tell about the way we work: with care, transparency and loyalty to the values that have always distinguished us.
In the interview, President Riccardo Comerio, together with Olga and Guglielmo Comerio, told about the spirit that guides us: making decisions together, valuing people and creating an environment where everyone feels part of a greater journey. “We make decisions together and strive to build loyalty within the company,” said Riccardo Comerio, a simple but powerful idea that continues to inspire us.
The article also traces significant moments in our past, such as a touching story from World War II, when a gesture of humanity left an indelible mark on the soul of the company. Even today, that memory inspires us to put people, community, and the environment at the center.
To be recognized as a “company of peace” means believing that growth and innovation should go hand in hand with respect, trust, and a focus on the future.
For all of us at Comerio Ercole, being featured in Forbes is not only a source of pride: it is confirmation that doing business with passion, integrity, and vision really does make a difference.
Continuing the Journey through the History of Our Company
The late 19th century was a period of extraordinary expansion for the textile industry, a growth that fueled the development of many related activities. In 1893, among the fervent workshops in the province of Milan, Comerio Ercole fu Melchiorre stood out as one of the most dynamic companies. At that time the company employed about thirty people, engaged not only in mechanical repairs but also in building machinery for the booming cotton industry.
Mr. Ercole Comerio ‘s dedication to his craft was evident. Every morning, before the sun rose, he could be found intent on carefully studying the technical drawings, scattered on large yellow sheets on the family kitchen table. After these early sessions, he would personally go to the company to supervise the design work, embodying the spirit of operational leadership.
Sensing the need for additional space, in 1895 Mr. Comerio sought a more suitable location for the company. He moved the business to Via Silvio Pellico, a location that would remain the company’s home for more than a century, gradually expanding to occupy a large area of the neighborhood with independent facilities. The Comerio family also moved in at the factory’s entrance, a testament to their deep connection with the company.
Mr. Comerio’s innovative spirit led him to embrace the technological marvels of his time. Fascinated by electricity and the telephone, he had his home connected to the telephone network as early as 1911, proudly obtaining subscriber number 75. Also in the field of transportation, the Comerio family owned one of the rare automobiles in Upper Milan, manufactured by the famous Zust workshops. In 1910, the car was even put at the disposal of Cardinal Ferrari during a pastoral visit to Sacro Monte in Varese-a gesture that reflected their prestige and generosity.
IN BRIEF:
Continuing the tale of our history, Comerio Ercole was celebrated by Forbes Italy in the “Enterprises of Peace” project , dedicated to companies that combine industrial excellence and human values . The article traces 140 years of responsible innovation, collaboration and attention to people, also recalling symbolic episodes such as the act of humanity during World War II. Today as yesterday, Comerio Ercole continues to build economic and social value, holding firm to the principles of passion, respect and integrity.
