The European Ceramic Tile Manufacturers Federation (CET) has elected Graziano Verdi, a prominent figure in Italy's ceramic industry, as its president for the next three years. The announcement was made during the European Ceramic Days 2024, a major industry gathering currently taking place in Brussels.
Verdi, who serves as CEO of Italcer Group and vice president of Confindustria Ceramica, brings extensive experience in the luxury and design sectors to his new role. Upon accepting the position, he emphasized his commitment to driving innovation and sustainable growth in Europe's ceramic industry.
"It is with great honor and responsibility that I take on the role of President of the European Ceramic Federation," Verdi said. He outlined his vision for the federation, focusing on realistic approaches to innovation and sustainability while strengthening the industry's position in Europe.
The appointment comes at a crucial time for the European ceramic sector, as industry leaders, technical experts, and policymakers convene at the European Parliament Ceramic Forum (EPCF) to discuss the industry's future role in the international market.
Verdi's leadership credentials include previous roles as CEO and president of Iris-Graniti Fiandre group and executive positions at Technogym and the Belgian multinational Koramic. In 2017, he co-founded Italcer Group with Alberto Forchielli of Mindful Capital Partners. Under his leadership, Italcer Group has grown to become Italy's fifth-largest industrial group in the high-end ceramic sector, with a turnover exceeding 340 million euros in 2023 and employing 1,100 people.
The group encompasses several prestigious brands including La Fabbrica Ceramiche-AVA, Elios Ceramica, Devon&Devon, CeramicaRondine, Equipe Cerámicas, Ceramica Fondovalle, and Terratinta Ceramiche. Verdi also serves as an Independent Director at Pelliconi S.p.A., a global leader in bottle cap manufacturing.
His election marks a new chapter for CET as the European ceramic industry continues to navigate challenges and opportunities in the global market while maintaining its commitment to innovation and sustainable practices.
