Italian food groups Gennaro Auricchio and GranTerre have struck a strategic deal to expand in Spain, underscoring the growing international appetite for premium Italian produce.
Through its subsidiary Caseifici Granterre, GranTerre has acquired a 40 per cent stake in Hispano Italiana de Charcuteria, a leading Spanish distributor of Italian specialities. Auricchio will retain 60 per cent, and leadership will pass to Costantino Petroccia (pictured), previously GranTerre’s head of sales for Iberia.
The partnership aims to consolidate the distribution of Auricchio cheeses and GranTerre’s cured meats and aged cheeses in Spain, with a focus on Parmareggio-branded Parmigiano Reggiano. The move gives GranTerre, which generated €1.7bn in sales last year, including €506mn abroad, direct control of Spanish distribution alongside its established operations in Germany, France, Austria, and the US.
Alberto Auricchio, chief executive, said the tie-up reflected “strong cultural and business affinities” and would create long-term growth opportunities in Spain. GranTerre chief Maurizio Moscatelli called the deal a “significant step” in the group’s international expansion, citing rising demand for high-quality Italian food in the Iberian market.
Auricchio, nearly 150 years old, is the world’s leading producer of provolone and also makes PDO Gorgonzola, Pecorino Romano, and Taleggio. GranTerre, owner of Parmareggio, Parmacotto, Casa Modena, and Senfter, is a major player in cured meats and aged cheeses, holding 11 PDO and six PGI certifications.