Zegna

In the mid-19th century, Angelo Zegna (pronounced dze?a ), who had trained as a watchmaker, changed his profession and founded a wool workshop. The last of his ten children, Ermenegildo, born in 1892, took over the management of one of the Italian family businesses. Lanificio Zegna (Zegna Wool Mill) was founded in 1910 in Trivero, near Biella. Ermenegildo was an ambitious visionary who wanted to dedicate himself to the pursuit of the highest quality. He also actively and consciously built his company's image through advertising campaigns, and Zegna was one of the first companies to advertise on Italian trains.

The main reason for success was a new way of thinking: when others preferred Italy, Ermenegildo bought his wool from abroad; when others trusted domestic engineers, Mr. E. bought his weaving machines from England; when others were still hesitant, Zegna was already using the latest technology to communicate with subcontractors. By the end of the 1930s, the company had over 1,000 employees and had brought large sums of money to the small, isolated village of Trivero.

Mr. Z. developed his village: a library, a sports hall, a cinema, a swimming pool and a health centre were built. Vast plantations were also established because, in his opinion, the well-being of nature also guaranteed the well-being of people. Cloth exports began in 1938 in the USA as Italian tailors, who had moved there, trusted Zegna. By the 1960s, Ermenegildo's sons Angelo and Aldo had taken over the company. They decided to start making men's clothing and expand production.

Previously, Zegna had only produced clothing fabrics. In 1968, a new factory was opened and the first men's trouser collection was presented. Success was clear, especially due to the high-quality materials. Accessories and sportswear also entered the picture, and in 1972, custom-made operations were  introduced. Currently, Angelo still runs the company, but the fourth generation is actively involved in the business.

During the 2000s, the company has expanded its operations considerably, acquiring numerous smaller companies to become part of the Zegna empire. Zegna also makes clothing for the likes of Gucci, YSL, and Tom Ford, and is one of the largest producers of high-quality clothing fabrics.

Collections:

• Ermenegildo Zegna, a traditional and classic line
• Couture, the triumph of highest quality craftsmanship
• Made- to-measure service
• Z by Zegna, which is youthful, slim and more affordable
• Underwear
• Zegna Sport, which clothes the man on the move