Business Leaders: Francesco Merloni

Francesco Merloni

Francesco Merloni was born in Fabriano, Italy in March 1925. He was the son of Aristide Merloni, who founded the Merloni Elettrodomestici company in 1930. Francesco joined the family business in 1945, and he became its managing director in 1960. Under his leadership, the company grew rapidly, becoming one of the leading manufacturers of home appliances in Europe.

In 1975, Francesco Merloni was appointed president of the Confindustria, the Italian Confederation of Industries. He served in this role for two terms, and he was instrumental in the development of the Italian economy. Francesco Merloni also served as a member of the European Parliament from 1984 to 1989.

Francesco Merloni was a respected business leader and philanthropist. He died in Fabriano, Italy in June 2001.