"Marco" and the Italian company "Baldinini S.r.l." are investing 15 million euros in a joint project

March 19, Vitebsk / Diana Kurilo - BELTA/. Joint limited liability company "Marko" and Italian company "Baldinini S.r.l." have signed a cooperation agreement, as reported to BELTA by Nikolay Martynov, General Director of LLC "Marko". In accordance with previously reached agreements, in July-August, under the supervision of "Baldinini S.r.l.", the production of high-quality leather footwear will commence at the "San Marco" factory, which is part of the "Marko" holding. Prior to this, Belarusian specialists will familiarize themselves with the specifics of production at Italian enterprises and undergo internships. According to the agreement, the foreign partner will fully provide all cutting and documentation for the models, as well as accessories. Nikolay Martynov stated that, together with Jimmy Baldinini, the head of "Baldinini S.r.l.", a decision has been made to produce elite footwear under the "Bravo" brand. Its registration has already been completed. "Marko" and "Baldinini S.r.l." have allocated two years for the implementation of the joint project and are prepared to invest 15 million euros in its execution. In 2010, 100,000 pairs of shoes will be produced under the "Bravo" brand, with a similar production volume planned for 2011. The "fall-winter 2010-2011" collection of the "Bravo" brand will include one hundred shoe models developed by Italian designers. Over 80% of the assortment will be for women. Italian and Belarusian businessmen have agreed on promoting "Bravo" branded footwear in the Russian market. Approximately half of the production volume will be exported to the Russian Federation. Joint limited liability company "Marko" is one of the largest footwear manufacturers in Belarus. It comprises about a dozen enterprises, including three footwear production factories. According to the results of 2009, the company produced 3.5 million pairs of shoes, which is 452,000 pairs more than in 2008. Preliminary data indicates that in the first quarter, the production growth rate at the company's footwear enterprises will be 120%. More than 50% of the footwear is exported to Russia. The "Marko" enterprise was established in 1991, and it employs over 3,000 people. "Baldinini" company was founded in 1910 in San Mauro Pascoli, Italy, where its main production facilities are still located. It produces high-quality elite leather footwear in the mid and upper price categories for men and women, as well as leather accessories. The products are distinguished by their exquisite design and are among the most prestigious in Europe and worldwide. "Baldinini S.r.l." has average annual revenues of about 50 million euros. The company's enterprises employ over 300 people. 80% of the manufactured products are intended for export. A monobrand distribution network, Baldinini, has been established in the CIS and Eastern European markets. -0-