50 Years

50 Years of Successes and Challenges: The Story of a Company That Built the Future

The Initial Vision: A Passion for Molds

The story of our company begins with a clear yet limited vision: building molds of various types, from sheet metal to plastic, from rubber to die-casting and sintering, with a small production dedicated to sheet metal blanking. A vision that, though simple in its origins, laid the foundation for an entrepreneurial journey spanning 50 years.

The Challenges of the Early Years

The early years were not without obstacles. Friction among the partners marked a turbulent initial period, culminating in the departure of one partner, which led to a long period of financial difficulties. Despite this, we persevered, initially working for Olivetti suppliers and focusing on the electronics sector, particularly semiconductor manufacturing. Our determination allowed us to gradually enter the market and build the groundwork for the future.

A Team Built on Expertise

There was no precise strategy in building the team, but careful selection of collaborators has always prioritized competence and dedication. Each member found their own role in an environment that values individual potential, creating a company culture aimed at maximizing everyone’s contribution.

Significant Moments in the Company’s History

Every innovation introduced, despite initial difficulties, represented a key moment for the company. A decisive turning point came about 10 years after its founding, when the second partner left and the Caretto family took exclusive control. Though financially challenging, this step marked a fresh start that led the company to diversify, opening up to the automotive market and other sectors.

Expansion and Offshoring

In the 1980s, Caretto began traveling to expand the company into foreign markets such as Germany and England, seizing more lucrative opportunities. Around 15 years ago, market demand pushed the company toward offshoring, resulting in the opening of a facility in Slovakia. Only recently has this decision begun to yield concrete rewards.

Overcoming Crises: Lessons from 2008

One of the most difficult moments came in 2008, when the global financial crisis wiped out orders in a single week. The bank cut funding, and managing suppliers became an immense challenge. Nevertheless, through patience and determination, the company overcame the crisis, though it took years to fully recover.

Adapting to an Evolving Sector

In 50 years, the sector has changed dramatically. Each new technology adopted represented a turning point, setting us apart from our competitors. We were the first in our area to use wire EDM machines—a strategic step that made a difference. However, some innovations proved costly, teaching us the importance of experience in managing new technologies.

Fundamental Values: Family and Resilience

Family has always been at the heart of the company’s development. When family members took the reins, they introduced a modern, market-focused vision, bringing about a significant change. Patience and resilience have guided us every step of the way, enabling the company to handle both successes and challenges.

The Role of Customers in Growth

Following our customers has always been a priority, despite their increasing demands and expectations. Their trust has been crucial to our growth, even though they often presented us with seemingly impossible challenges.

Reflections and Pride

Looking back, our greatest achievement is simply still being here after 50 years. If we could go back, we would certainly revisit some decisions, but every mistake has been a lesson. Our pride lies in having built a craft that has given us so much—both in terms of satisfaction and challenges.

A Glimpse into the Future

We envision the company’s future as a stable and serene journey. One unfulfilled aspiration would have been the development of a product exclusively our own, but the dream remains to see the company prosper over the next 10–20 years.

A Message for the 50th Anniversary

“Believe in it as well, because we still do.” This is the message we want to convey to our employees and customers on this significant milestone. Our motivation remains intact, as does our commitment to face the future with the same dedication that has brought us this far.

Giuseppe Caretto