Who hasn’t had Tachipirina in their medicine cabinet? One of the most widely used remedies for fever or pain, Tachipirina has been a fixture in our homes for almost seventy years, thanks to Angelini Industries, one of the most established and respected companies in the international pharmaceutical sector. But how did a small laboratory founded in the Marche region manage to transform itself into a giant with a presence in over 20 countries? The story of Angelini is a journey marked by brilliant insights, resilience, and a constant mission: to care for people.
The origins
It all began in 1919, when Francesco Angelini founded a small pharmaceutical company in Ancona with a clear mission: to improve people’s health through effective and affordable products. From the very beginning, Angelini has stood out for its quality and patient-centred approach, two elements that would become the cornerstones of its ‘Made in Italy’ identity.
In the aftermath of the Second World War, Angelini was the first to import vitamin B12, which was used to combat the anemia that had become widespread in Italy due to malnutrition, and marketed it under the name Dobetin®. This marked the beginning of a long series of innovations and successes.
Growth and major brands
The 1950s marked several key milestones in the company’s growth. Firstly, the relocation of its headquarters to Rome; then, in 1958, the launch of Tachipirina (paracetamol), the company’s first major success and a medicine that would become a staple in the homes of millions of families. In the same year, the company began its diversification process with the acquisition of Fater, a manufacturer of consumer goods for personal care and the home. At the same time, Angelini invested in research, distribution, and branding, anticipating many of the dynamics of the modern market.
Towards new frontiers
In the 1960s and 1970s, production facilities were expanded, and investment in research and development increased. During this period, new molecules were discovered, such as oxolamine (to treat coughs), benzidamine (an anti-inflammatory used in the Tantum Verde formula), trazodone (the antidepressant at the heart of Trittico), and dapiprazole (an anti-glaucoma drug). In 1975, Fameccanica was founded to manufacture machinery for the consumer goods industry, specializing in absorbent products.
Internationalisation and global growth
Over the following decade, Angelini embarked on a process of internationalisation, expanding across Europe and beyond. The company opened branches, forged partnerships, and acquired new expertise. It was also during this period that Moment® was launched, a headache relief medicine that harnesses the properties of ibuprofen.
This phase marks the transition from a domestic player to a global one and helps to strengthen the international reputation of the Italian pharmaceutical sector.
Beyond pharmaceuticals: diversification and acquisitions
Angelini’s strategy – not to limit itself to the pharmaceutical sector but to grow by expanding into other sectors as well – has been clear from the outset. In 1992, the company strengthened its position in the consumer goods sector through a joint venture with Procter & Gamble to manage Fater, a leader in personal care and household products, with brands such as Lines, Pampers, and Ace.
A few years later, Angelini entered the wine market with the acquisition of three historic Tuscan wineries: Trerose, Val di Suga, and San Leonino, to which Bertani, Puiatti, and Fazi Battaglia would be added over the years.
In the 2000s, it acquired and relaunched Amuchina, which became the universal symbol of disinfection.
Innovation as a driver of change
Angelini Industries has always relied on scientific and technological research to drive its growth and innovation. The group continuously invests in state-of-the-art laboratories, developing new products and solutions that meet the needs of modern society, from healthcare to environmental sustainability.
Looking ahead: Angelini Industries today
In 2021, the company unveiled its new global brand identity: Angelini Industries. This rebranding reflects a modern, multifaceted company that operates in 21 countries, generates over €2.1 billion in turnover, and employs thousands of people worldwide.
Today, under the leadership of CEO Sergio Marullo di Condojanni, Angelini Industries is a robust, dynamic, and forward-looking group. Although it has grown into a global enterprise, the company remains true to its family roots and the values that have guided its growth from the very beginning; through Angelini Ventures, it looks to the future by investing in start-ups and biotechnology to anticipate tomorrow’s healthcare challenges.
Congratulations to those who bring Italian innovation to the world!
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