A change at the helm of one of the historic sectors of the Italian agri-food industry. Today in Milan, Manuela Polli was elected president of the "Vegetables in vinegar, brine, oil, and differently preserved mushrooms" Group of Unione Italiana Food. This appointment brings to the helm of the sector a figure with extensive industrial experience, representing the sixth generation of the Polli family and currently president of the Polli Group's Board of Directors. This position is part of Italy's leading food trade association, which brings together 530 companies and over 900 brands across 26 product categories.
The preserved vegetable sector is a consolidated part of the national food tradition, with a widespread presence in Italian pantries and a growing role in international markets. The new presidency comes at a complex time, marked by cost pressures, changing consumption patterns, and the need for innovation throughout the supply chain. Commenting on the appointment, Polli expressed gratitude to the association and the industry's entrepreneurs, emphasizing the importance of a shared commitment to addressing current challenges. The stated goal is to strengthen the category's representation and identify concrete solutions to support business competitiveness.
Among the priorities are consolidating the role of preserved vegetable companies in institutional discussions and supporting their members in a still uncertain economic environment. This approach aims to enhance a sector that combines production tradition and innovation capacity. Polli's profile reflects these characteristics. Fratelli Polli SpA, founded in 1872, is now an international company with a turnover of €191 million in 2025, 78% of which is generated abroad. Present in 60 countries, the group has four production plants and produces over 210 million packages annually, processing more than 42 types of vegetables.
The company employs approximately 410 people and has three direct sales subsidiaries in Germany, France, and the United Kingdom, demonstrating a strong commitment to exports and innovation, including sustainability. Within Unione Italiana Food, the division led by Polli is part of an ecosystem that represents the excellence of the Italian food industry, from pasta to coffee to baby products. The group's new governance structure therefore aims to strengthen the dialogue between businesses and institutions, supporting the sector through a phase of transformation and competitive revitalization.
