Marina Caprotti: A Legacy of Leadership in Italian Retail

Marina Caprotti, a prominent Italian businesswoman, has made her mark as a leader and custodian of one of Italy’s most renowned retail empires, Esselunga. Born into a family synonymous with innovation and quality in the supermarket industry, Marina inherited not only immense wealth but also a legacy of entrepreneurship and dedication that she continues to uphold as executive chair of Esselunga.

Her journey is deeply intertwined with the history of the family business, founded by her late father, Bernardo Caprotti, whose vision and determination established Esselunga as a leader in the Italian retail sector. Marina’s life story is a testament to resilience, strategic acumen, and a commitment to preserving and growing her family’s business while navigating the complexities of modern retail.

A Family Legacy: The Roots of Esselunga

Esselunga was founded in 1957 by Bernardo Caprotti, who brought the concept of modern supermarkets to Italy. He envisioned a retail chain that would revolutionize the Italian shopping experience by offering high-quality products, competitive prices, and exceptional service. Over decades, the company grew to become a household name, earning a reputation for excellence and innovation in grocery retail.

Marina Caprotti was born into this legacy, witnessing her father’s relentless work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit from a young age. As a child, she was exposed to the family business and the values that guided its success—integrity, customer focus, and a commitment to quality. These values would later become the foundation of her own leadership style.

A Transformative Inheritance

In 2016, the Caprotti family faced a pivotal moment with the passing of Bernardo Caprotti. His death marked the beginning of a new era for Esselunga, as his estate was divided among his heirs. Bernardo’s second wife, Giuliana, and his daughter Marina inherited a 67% stake in the company, while his other two children from his first marriage received the remaining 33%.

This division set the stage for Marina’s rise to prominence within the company. In 2020, she and her stepmother Giuliana took a bold step to consolidate ownership, purchasing the remaining 33% stake for nearly €2 billion. This move not only solidified Marina’s control over Esselunga but also demonstrated her strategic vision and commitment to maintaining the company’s legacy.

Taking the Helm: Marina as Executive Chair

Following the consolidation, Marina Caprotti was named executive chair of Esselunga in 2020. This appointment marked a significant milestone in her career, placing her at the forefront of one of Italy’s largest retail enterprises.

Under her leadership, Esselunga has continued to thrive, adapting to the changing dynamics of the retail industry. Marina has focused on expanding the company’s reach, enhancing its digital capabilities, and maintaining its reputation for quality. She has embraced innovation while staying true to the principles that have defined Esselunga’s success.

Modernizing Esselunga

Marina Caprotti has shown a keen understanding of the need to evolve in a rapidly changing retail landscape. One of her key initiatives has been the integration of technology into Esselunga’s operations. From enhancing online shopping platforms to streamlining supply chain management, Marina has ensured that the company remains competitive in an increasingly digital world.

Her leadership has also been marked by a commitment to sustainability. Esselunga has introduced eco-friendly initiatives, such as reducing plastic usage, optimizing energy consumption, and sourcing products responsibly. These efforts align with Marina’s vision of a business that not only delivers value to customers but also contributes positively to society and the environment.

Balancing Tradition and Innovation

While Marina is focused on innovation, she also understands the importance of preserving Esselunga’s heritage. The company’s commitment to quality, which has been a hallmark of its success, remains central to its operations. Marina has ensured that Esselunga continues to offer high-quality products, many of which are sourced from local producers, thereby supporting Italian agriculture and craftsmanship.

This balance between tradition and innovation has helped Esselunga maintain its strong brand identity while appealing to a new generation of consumers. Marina’s leadership reflects a deep respect for the company’s roots and a forward-looking approach to its future.

Challenges and Triumphs

Marina Caprotti’s journey as a leader has not been without challenges. Navigating the complexities of family business dynamics, managing a high-profile inheritance, and leading a major company through a global pandemic are just a few of the obstacles she has faced.

Despite these challenges, Marina has demonstrated resilience and determination. Her ability to adapt to changing circumstances and make bold decisions has solidified her position as a respected leader in the retail industry.

Personal Life and Values

While Marina Caprotti is known for her business acumen, she is also a private individual who values her personal life. She shares a close bond with her stepmother Giuliana, with whom she collaborated to secure Esselunga’s future. Their partnership reflects a shared commitment to preserving the company’s legacy and ensuring its continued success.

Marina’s leadership is guided by a strong sense of responsibility to her employees, customers, and the broader community. She recognizes the impact of Esselunga as a major employer and a trusted brand in Italy and is dedicated to upholding the company’s reputation for excellence.

Looking Ahead

As executive chair of Esselunga, Marina Caprotti is well-positioned to lead the company into the future. Her vision for growth, innovation, and sustainability will continue to shape the company’s trajectory in the years to come.

Marina’s journey is a testament to the power of leadership rooted in values, adaptability, and a commitment to excellence. Her ability to honor her family’s legacy while embracing change ensures that Esselunga remains a cornerstone of Italian retail and a symbol of quality and innovation.