Giovanni Raspini: More quality, fewer restrictions

Silver is the stylistic code through which Giovanni Raspini is the spokesman of a Made in Italy with a strong artisan imprint. His thoughts on the crisis we are going through mirror his determined nature which, united with an entrepreneurial vision, has led the Raspini company to boast 20 flagship stores in Italy and abroad as well as a presence in selected multi-brand stores where his creations, in special displays, communicate a style brimming with material sensations.

How has this emergency changed your way of doing business?
A few years ago, I opened a new store in Venice. It was all finished. Everything was shiny and perfect. The windows were full and sparkling. The store assistants eager to start. Everything was just right for the opening. No, wait. We were missing one official stamp without which we could not open. It took one week to get that stamp. And for one week I did not sleep. I spent my days on the telephone. Asking, imploring, soliciting, threatening. Sheer hell. Now, I have twenty stores that have been closed for two months but I’m quite calm. Spring always comes after the winter. And this one will pass too. Strong companies will emerge even stronger. For the weaker ones… let’s hope for the best.

What worries you most about what may happen?
I’m worried that some may not learn the lesson. The road to the future should trigger the idea of reducing bureaucracy and restrictions which, in one way or another, choke and paralyze our country.

A positive comment on the future of jewelry
Spending time at home helps to reflect. To dig deeper. To understand better. I hope that when we see the stars again, we will be more aware of how important quality is. We will be more selective, more demanding, more careful and prepared. We will take more care about who we socialize with, where we go, what we eat, what we drink, what we buy and what we wear. What counts and what doesn’t. What is worth it and what isn’t.

Every new collection is a challenge. How can this moment be transformed into an opportunity?
I don’t love rhetoric. The rhetoric of anthems, of flags and the mythology of “everything will be alright.” I will continue to promote what counts for me. Good hands, skilled artisans. Difficult work done by persons of value. Real and genuine designers and meticulous and demanding work. There are no short cuts.

Systematize? The anti-coronavirus supply chain?
I am not sure that systematizing is a winning strategy. I detest the lobbyist imposition of trade union pacts that aim to gain mini concessions. They are dinosaurs that are trying to survive and justify themselves. All we have to do is realize that the restrictive regime can suffocate businesses. Business must always be put first: it is the only system we know of so far that creates wealth and well-being.

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