From syringes to pushchairs, Artsana’s story is the tale of an insight that has transformed the way Italian families (and others) care for their little ones. The group, best known for the Chicco brand, is now a global leader in the baby products sector. Its story is also one of Italian excellence, bringing values such as safety, design, and reliability to the world.
Pietro Catelli’s insight
The history of Artsana began in 1946 in Como, when Pietro Catelli, a young pharmacist, founded the company with the aim of distributing medical and pharmaceutical products, particularly needles and syringes.
From the very outset, Catelli showed a strong entrepreneurial spirit, identifying new and emerging needs within Italy’s rapidly evolving society, and the company distinguished itself through an innovative approach and a strong entrepreneurial ethos characteristic of Made in Italy: the ability to understand people’s needs combined with attention to detail and product quality.
The birth of Chicco: a brand destined to make history
1958 marked a turning point for the company. With the birth of his first child, Catelli experienced first-hand the challenges faced by new parents and realised how few products were specifically designed for babies. He therefore founded the Chicco brand, named in honour of his son, who was nicknamed ‘Chicco’. Within a few years, its products – ranging from feeding equipment to toys, from pushchairs to clothing – found their way into millions of homes, making Artsana the undisputed leader in ‘baby care’ and helping to set quality and safety standards that are still recognised internationally today.
International expansion
From the 1970s onwards, Artsana embarked on a major international expansion. The company opened sales offices and retail outlets across Europe, America, and Asia, bringing the excellence of Made in Italy products for early childhood sector to over 120 countries.
Despite its global growth, the group retains strong Italian roots. Its headquarters remain in Grandate, in the province of Como, where many of its strategic, research, and development activities are coordinated.
In the 1990s, the acquisition of Prénatal further strengthened the group’s presence in the specialist retail sector for children and families, establishing Artsana as one of the leading European players in the industry.
Innovation, research and responsibility
One of the key features of Artsana’s growth is its constant focus on research and development. The company works with paediatricians, universities, designers, and research centres to develop products that meet the real needs of children at different stages of their development.
Over the years, the group has also strengthened its commitment to sustainability and social responsibility, promoting initiatives focused on product safety, reducing environmental impact, and supporting families.
Family tradition and a global outlook
In the 2000s, the generational transition from Pietro Catelli’s leadership to his sons marked a crucial moment. Artsana faced the challenges of globalization while maintaining the values that have always defined Made in Italy: identity, responsibility, and a connection to the local area.
Since 2016, the Investindustrial fund has supported the group’s international growth, while preserving Artsana’s corporate culture and Italian spirit.
Artsana today
Today, Artsana is an international group led by Alberto Rivolta, with brands recognised worldwide and millions of families using its products every day. The company continues to develop solutions designed to support children and parents through the various stages of growth.
His story shows how entrepreneurial insight, combined with a passion for innovation and a commitment to people, can grow into a global enterprise capable of leaving a lasting legacy.
Congratulations to those who create products that support children as they grow and promote Made in Italy around the world!
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