![]() |
Home - City Guide - Bologna - Business | ||
![]() |
||
Business Business Profile: Bologna, a city of enterprise noted for its industrial excellence, has the highest quota of small businesses per capita of any Italian city. A youthful and progressive city, it also claims the highest percentage of graduates and the highest rate of female employment in Italy. Unemployment figures are low: 5.6%, compared to 12.5% on a national level. Wealth flourishes in Bologna: the per capita income - at 38% above the national average - is the highest in the country. Early examples of technological innovation include the first silk-spinning machine, invented in Bologna before the industrial revolution, and the work of Guglielmo Marconi, pioneering inventor of the radio. Today, the city continues to be a leader in mechanical engineering, exporting machines for packaging and agriculture around the world. Other key exports include food, clothes and luxury cars. However, the economy, for the most part, is centred on the service industry, which employs 83% of the city's working population. As the site of an important trade fair complex - the fifth-largest in Europe - Bologna plays host to over 26 national and international expositions every year. Bologna hosts two fairs of worldwide importance: Arte Fiera, a market exhibition of contemporary art, in January; and the Children's Book Fair, which involves some 1500 publishing houses, in April. Business Etiquette: The Bolognese are among the most efficient and hospitable of Italy's inhabitants and punctuality is respected. Business cards are commonly exchanged by way of introduction. Smart dress is appropriate, as is a high degree of formality -Italian associates should always be referred to as Lei (the polite form of tu) unless otherwise indicated. Although many executives speak French, and some speak English, it is best to conduct business in Italian if possible. Personal relationships are extremely important in business, and Italians always appreciate a visitor who tries to speak their language, however poorly. Small talk is an essential part of any business meeting and leisurely lunches are a welcome element of Bolognese business. Normal business hours are 0900-1700. |