Rino Mastrotto turns 80: The story of an entrepreneur who brought Italian tanning excellence to the world

From his introduction to the leather sector at just 14 years old to guiding an international group and assuming the global presidency of tanners: eighty years of life, entrepreneurial vision, and passion for his local territory.

Trissino (Vicenza), October 29, 2026

Eighty years of life, over sixty years dedicated to enterprise, and a journey deeply intertwined with that of the Italian tanning industry. Rino Mastrotto, founder of the eponymous Group, today celebrates his eightieth birthday—a milestone that offers an occasion to reflect upon the extraordinary human and entrepreneurial journey of one of the key figures in the industrial development of the Vicenza region.

It is a story built on hard work, determination, courage, and long-term vision. The story of a young boy who, at the age of 14, took his first steps in the family tannery and, over the decades, helped build an industrial powerhouse capable of establishing a strong international presence, becoming a trusted partner for the most prestigious luxury, automotive, and interior design brands worldwide.

The origins of this story date back to 1958, when his father Arciso Mastrotto established the family tanning business in Arzignano, in the province of Vicenza. It was within this environment—at the heart of a district destined to become one of the most prominent tanning hubs globally—that Rino Mastrotto grew professionally, mastering the craft directly in the field.

These were the years of the Italian economic boom, a period during which resourcefulness, manufacturing capability, and a strong work ethic transformed small artisan workshops into industrial enterprises. Rino Mastrotto was among the entrepreneurs who foresaw this shift, investing in corporate growth, specialized production, and expansion into new markets.

A decisive milestone arrived in 1998 with the establishment of Rino Mastrotto Group, created through the integration of several tanning companies, including Basmar, Pomari, Calbe, Brusarosco, and Galassia. This industrial project united diverse expertise, production processes, and specializations under a shared vision, laying the foundation for subsequent international expansion.

Over the years, the Group consolidated its global presence, expanding both its production capacity and commercial reach.

Rino Mastrotto has dedicated a significant part of his career to representing and advocating for the entire tanning sector.

In 2011, he was elected President of UNIC (the Italian Tanners’ Association), a highly prestigious role that was complemented by prominent positions at the European level within COTANCE, as well as internationally.

His path reached one of its highest honors with his appointment as President of the International Council of Tanners (ICT), the global organization representing the leather industry. This role stands as a testament to the authority he earned within the sector and his continuous contribution to promoting excellence and advancing the interests of the tanning industry across global markets.

Deeply attached to his homeland, Rino Mastrotto also served as President of the Tanning Section of Confindustria Vicenza, fostering active dialogue between businesses, institutions, and trade associations. His commitment extended to research and innovation through his involvement in key organizations dedicated to technological advancement and sustainable development within the sector.

The entrepreneurial vision that guided the Group’s growth continues today through a path of development and diversification led by members of the third generation of the Mastrotto family.

Matteo Mastrotto, Chief Executive Officer of the Group and Vice President of UNIC Veneto, leads its strategic and industrial development.

Barbara Mastrotto, heading the Automotive Business Unit, continues her father’s legacy of institutional leadership by holding key positions within the Confindustria network. From 2021 to 2025, she served as Vice President of Confindustria with responsibility for Regional Development and Special Projects, and currently serves as a member of the Advisory Board of Confindustria Veneto, overseeing Internationalization and Investment Attraction.

From its origins in leather processing, Rino Mastrotto has progressively evolved into an international group specializing in fine leathers, high-end textiles, custom components, and tailored services for the luxury sector.

The expansion of capabilities through strategic acquisitions, investments in research and sustainability, and the entry of Prada Group into the share capital in 2025 represent some of the most recent milestones in this ongoing journey.

This evolution remains deeply rooted in the core values of its origins: a culture of hard work, product quality, respect for expertise, and the ability to innovate while preserving its true identity.

Eighty years of Rino Mastrotto thus tell the story of Italian industry itself: that of an enterprise grown alongside its territory, capable of spanning generations and economic transformations, while carrying the value of Italian craftsmanship to the world.

Happy 80th Birthday, Mr. President.

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