Back to Our Roots: Proving the Family-Run Business Can Thrive Anywhere, PreGel Is a Global Success

Dario Rabboni

Dario Rabboni

A Q&A with Dario Rabboni, board director, PreGel

Q. What is your role at PreGel?

A. As the board director, I am involved in the general marketing for PreGel Headquarters and its subsidiaries located around the world. Specifically, I develop and create concepts for strategic projects by adding value to the company with the introduction of new brands, such as Happy Gelato, La Via dei Gusti and the Wellness Line.

Q. How is your family involved in PreGel?

A. My father, Dr. Luciano Rabboni, is the founder and an exceptional person, which goes beyond his role at PreGel. Today, more than ever, he is the soul of the company and has the foresight to understand challenges that arise, especially in regards to upcoming concepts for emerging markets, and the ability to find solutions quickly. But above all, My father is always open and willing to listen to co-workers, knowing all the details of his company and staff.

Q. As a family-owned company, are other family members involved in PreGel?

A. Every member is involved. My mother, Elena, has been a part of PreGel since the very beginning and is extremely capable in managing different situations. She is a strong leader and a driving force behind the people of PreGel, which can be difficult at times with more than 300 employees currently employeed. Vittorio, my brother, is currently pursuing a unique path, including franchising. He is respected for his public relations abilities and for the way he develops business relationships at all levels.

Q. Growing up with gelato and PreGel, when did you know you wanted to be a part of the company?

A. After I graduated with a law degree, I worked with a law office in Reggio Emilia, It was a valuable experience, but I soon decided to dedicate myself completely to the family business. I always knew that I would be a part of PreGel, and not because I felt obligated, but because I wanted to give back to my family for everything they have given to me.

Q. What have you learned from working at PreGel?

A. I have learned that respecting others’ opinions and their points of view is the key to success. In every type of business, teamwork is valuable because different perspectives and opinions can blend together, resulting in a common goal.

Q. What has contributed to the success of your family business?

A. We have all learned how important it is to constantly renew ourselves, never losing sight of innovation and never forgetting the feeling of accomplishment. There are always new targets, channels and paths to follow; but in every success, there are hidden risks. When you take something for granted or become accustomed to a way of being, you become stagnant, and that is the end of a business.

Q. What do you think is the biggest challenge you face as a family-owned business?

A. The biggest challenge is to never take anything for granted. Being at the head of a family business gives you authority towards others, but this authority doesn’t automatically grant you the respect of others. This respect must be earned through real action. PreGel is not only a company or a product, it is a way of living and a way of sharing work experiences. PreGel will continue to grow as long as the spirit of those involved in the company grows and we are able to predict the trends of consumers in the global market.