Italian gelato and sorbet producer Tonitto 1939 is accelerating its expansion in the European private label market, which now generates 70 percent of the company’s total revenue. Following a record performance in 2024, the firm based in Genoa has launched new private label projects in four key markets — the Netherlands, Italy, Greece, and Germany — reinforcing its presence in Europe’s most competitive retail environments.
The company is also targeting Eastern Europe as a strategic growth area, with increasing demand seen in Bulgaria, Romania, and Serbia. These markets have shown particular interest in Tonitto’s bespoke offerings, reflecting broader momentum in the private label segment, which continues to outpace branded products in several categories.
Tonitto 1939 is set to exhibit at PLMA’s “World of Private Label” trade show in Amsterdam on 20–21 May, the sector’s leading event. This year’s edition is expected to host more than 3,160 exhibitors from 75 countries and attract over 19,000 buyers and professionals from across 120 nations. Spanning 43,500 square metres, the event has become a key forum for industry players seeking new commercial partnerships and market intelligence.
“In recent years, we’ve developed a model that allows us to work effectively across highly diverse markets and retail platforms,” said Alberto Piscioneri, General Manager of Tonitto 1939. “Private label isn’t just contract manufacturing — it’s about building original, high-value solutions with a strong identity alongside our partners.” He added that Tonitto’s ability to tailor product innovation, format, and positioning to specific market needs has been central to its international growth. The company’s approach is underpinned by what it calls its Value Added Growth Compass — a framework designed to support retail clients from concept through to execution, leveraging experience across more than 35 countries and 300 SKUs.
Recognition of this strategy came recently at the PLMA Awards, where Tonitto received two honours: one for Galatine, a milk-based gelato, and another for Tonitto DUO, a hybrid product combining gelato and sorbet. Both were cited for their innovation, quality, and alignment with evolving consumer preferences across global retail markets.