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Amarelli is among the few family-owned businesses that has demonstrated resilience, longevity and sustained growth during the long tenure of its 13 generational transitions in family. The Amarelli family's history of licorice production dates back to the early 11th century. Their enduring fascination with this remarkable plant, scientifically known as "glycyrrhiza glabra" (referred as "licorice" or "sweet root,") led to a breakthrough in 1731 when they established a "concio" - one of the earliest pre-industrial organizations aimed at extracting the beneficial juices of licorice. Cultures around the world have used licorice, a sweet-tasting root native to Eurasia, for centuries for culinary, medicinal, and industrial purposes.
Currently, Amarelli is among the top six (6) global Licorice root products manufacturer, managed by the 14th generation successor – Fortunato (2023). With their Head Quarter in Calabria (Italy), their products include 6+ different varieties of confectionary products derived from Licorice root. They have local outlets in Calabria and supply the products globally through their online platform*.
The annual revenue of Amarelli reported in 2018* was estimated as 6 million euros with approximately 200 employees. It is among the oldest Italian confectionery companies having the most famous and important licorice factory in Italy.
In 2012, the Amarelli was inducted into the prestigious association of "les Hénokiens,"* which comprises of only fifty-four (54) family-owned companies worldwide, each with a history spanning two centuries or more.
*Source: Henokiens case study by Prof. Salvatore Tomaselli Ph.D, 2018
A Licorice Museum – Testament of Family Legacy as Innovation:
Giorgio Amarelli (the 13th generation successor of the Amarelli family) came up with the idea of setting up a Licorice museum. After he passed away, his father (Giuseppe) and sister-in-law (Pina) successfully established the “Giorgio Amarelli” Museum in 2001. The museum displays the family's entrepreneurial experience, the history of Calabria's unique licorice product, and the company's modern activities.
*Source: Amarelli Museum website www.museodellaliquirizia.it
The museum has received prestigious awards, including the "Guggenheim Impresa & Cultura" in 2001. Visitors to the museum can explore the following:
Innovation through External collaborations
The Amarelli family has a long history of innovation, both in terms of their business practices and their commitment to preserving and promoting their culture and tradition
Source: Amarelli website https://www.amarelli.it/en/the-excellencies/
Today, the Amarelli stands as a testament to the family's dedication, with a global reputation and a significant place in the Italian confectionery industry.
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