What were the origins of the company and the role of founders Linda and Giuseppe Poggioli?
"The history of Pelletteria Poggioli began in the early 20th century with Linda and Giuseppe Poggioli, who launched the brand by creating bags and trunks. From the very beginning, the production of travel items was complemented by that of items for the military, such as holsters, backpacks, and technical accessories. The first production facility was located on Via Stazione, now Salita Chiattone, while the first store opened in Piazza Riforma. Around the 1920s, the family purchased the building—and the adjacent one at Via Luvini 5—consolidating their presence in what remains the store's historic location today, and has always been the heart of Lugano's commercial district.
Over this long period, several generations of the same family have succeeded one another at the helm of the company. What role has family continuity played in the company's development?
Family continuity was fundamental. After the untimely passing of my grandfather, my grandmother carried on the business with great determination. Later, their son Demetrio and his wife Sandra took over, dedicating themselves to the family business for many years. Each generation has contributed, keeping the founding values alive: reliability, quality, and a direct relationship with customers.
How has Pelletteria Poggioli managed to evolve over time while maintaining a recognizable identity while adapting to market changes?
Poggioli Pelletteria's identity has always been based on the quality and functionality of its products, designed to last. At the same time, the company has adapted to the needs of its local and international clientele, following evolving trends, colors, and materials. International trade fairs and relationships with long-standing suppliers in Milan, Florence, and Paris offer important guidance, but every choice is reinterpreted according to the store's taste and sensibility, with particular attention to the local context.
What are the main products and services offered today?
Poggioli is now a leading name in the travel goods sector, with a unique assortment in the canton and among the most comprehensive in Switzerland. Suitcases, trolleys, and travel accessories require significant space and meticulous inventory management, aspects that the store has developed over time. The offering also includes bags, accessories, and gift items, designed to accompany customers year-round, not just during traditional holidays.
The selection of brands represented is crucial. What criteria guide your choices?
Our selection is based on a relationship of trust with suppliers, product quality, and reliable after-sales service. It's a collaborative effort that combines experience, intuition, and customer service. Multi-brand stores are increasingly popular today: customers seek quality and variety, rather than a single brand. This approach allows us to offer coherent yet diverse offerings, catering to different tastes and needs.
Looking at Lugano, how would you describe the current trend of commercial activities?
Lugano is a city with many souls. Alongside luxury, it's important to maintain a diverse offering, one that appeals to young people and those seeking an affordable yet high-quality gift. Tourism and conferences remain important, not just in the summer months, but the city's true strength is its local clientele, with whom we build lasting relationships based on trust and service.
What is your relationship with traders' associations and the local area?
Networking is important. Joint initiatives, such as events and demonstrations, help make the city more vibrant and boost local businesses.
How do you approach the topic of online and digital commerce?
Online commerce is a reality we must contend with, but the physical store remains central. Human contact, personalized advice, and service are irreplaceable. We have an online shop, but experience shows that Poggioli's added value remains the in-store welcome, professionalism, the help of excellent staff, and the direct relationship with the customer.
What are the main trends in your sector today?
«Trade fairs are increasingly offering sustainable materials and “green” lines, which are part of the sector's evolution, even if they don't yet represent the entire offering.
The market is constantly changing and requires flexibility, curiosity, and the ability to adapt. Quality remains a fundamental value, even in a context where consumption tends to be increasingly rapid.
Looking to the future, what values will continue to inspire Pelletteria Poggioli?
Passion. It's what has allowed the company to reach 121 years of history and continues to motivate every decision. Along with passion, there's a sense of responsibility towards family tradition and the desire to build a true partnership with customers, both existing and new.
