Design, innovation and business cooperation are in the spotlight at the 32nd Tirana International Fair. More than 70 Italian companies are presenting their products, services and projects, while exploring new opportunities in the Albanian market.

The panel “Tradition as a Living Project” brought together Italian companies and design professionals to discuss how traditional craftsmanship, cultural heritage and modern technology can work together to create new products and business models.

The participating companies come from several Italian regions, including Puglia, Lazio, Campania, Veneto and Marche.

Italian architect and designer Pierangelo Caramia said one of the main challenges is helping companies welcome new ideas and turn them into opportunities for growth without completely changing their existing production models.

He described Tirana and the international fair as an ideal platform for companies to develop new ideas and reach higher levels of cooperation.

Meanwhile, the ManiFuture initiative is helping strengthen these links. Supported by the Region of Puglia and Unioncamere Puglia, in cooperation with the Italian Trade Agency, the initiative promotes the exchange of experience and knowledge in design, manufacturing and interior furnishing.

Italian designer Guido Santilio also highlighted the importance of design in business development. He said companies should see design as more than the appearance of a product. Instead, they should use it as a tool to introduce new technologies and improve production processes.

According to Santilio, this approach can also help smaller companies and businesses with long manufacturing traditions embrace innovation.

Beyond ideas and discussions, the fair gives companies an opportunity to present their production capabilities and establish direct business contacts.

Vitamaria Nuzzi, an entrepreneur at Nuzzi Metal Design, said the event offers an important opportunity to showcase the company’s work in metal furniture and structural elements. Her company works with businesses, architects, interior designers and contractors to develop complex projects. It also produces customised solutions, with attention to detail and long-lasting quality.

The fair also creates opportunities for cooperation across different sectors. For example, a tourism development project could bring together construction companies, energy suppliers, technology providers and interior designers under one roof.

Another example of the connection between tradition and innovation comes from Pimar, an Italian company specialising in limestone processing.

Mary Marrocco presented the company’s history, highlighting its four generations of craftsmanship. Based in the Salento region, Pimar has preserved traditional stone-working techniques while introducing new creative ideas and modern approaches.

The 32nd Tirana International Fair, held at the Palace of Congresses, aims to strengthen business relations between Albanian and international companies.

Overall, the event offers more than a space to display products and services. It creates opportunities to exchange knowledge, build partnerships and explore new markets beyond national borders.

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