The Aquafil Example Acquiring a company is the perfect chance to redefine its impact. A strong reminder that acquisitions can be a powerful lever for sustainable innovation.
Acquiring a company is much more than a managerial, financial, or cultural challenge: it’s the opportunity to rethink its impact and align it with ESG priorities. 🌍✨
The story of Aquafil Group shows how Giulio Bonazzi transformed a small SME into a publicly listed company with international reach, making it a true model of innovation and sustainability.
Founded in 1965 in Italy, Aquafil evolved from an SME into a major player in synthetic fiber production. Today, with more than 2,500 employees and revenues of €572M, the company is a pioneer in textile circular economy.
➡ Acquisition and modernization by Giulio Bonazzi
In the 1980s, Aquafil was acquired by the Bonazzi family, who modernized the business and steered it toward a more sustainable model. This transformation laid the foundation for international expansion and a strong commitment to the circular economy.
The company’s shift toward greater sustainability has been closely tied to its economic model transformation.
Under Giulio Bonazzi’s leadership, Aquafil invested heavily in R&D. In 2011, it launched its flagship product, the ECONYL® Regeneration System, a technology enabling the production of nylon from recycled waste — a true revolution for the textile industry.
Since 2008, Aquafil has followed the ECO PLEDGE® policy, integrating sustainability into every stage of production.
In 2023, this commitment was reinforced with a structured ESG policy, ensuring an ever more responsible business model.
This environmental shift transformed Aquafil from a small SME into an international champion, now a publicly listed company with global impact.
Aquafil’s story is a powerful inspiration for all business acquirers: success is not just about numbers, but about vision and commitment. Transforming an SME also means transforming its impact on the world.
