by Paola Butera
Mencarelli Group has represented a point of reference for excellence in our town for years. But what is the secret to keeping the bar of innovation high while remaining faithful to one’s identity? We asked Agnese and Daniela, two of the Mencarelli sisters, protagonists of a corporate management that puts talent and female leadership at its core. Through their words, we explore the challenges of entrepreneurship today and the driving force of a management style that knows how to build a team starting from the family.
Good morning Daniela, can you briefly tell us about your entrepreneurial journey?
D: My journey is a story of roots and vision. It began with the desire to transform hospitality into a daily art, starting from a solid family tradition and then evolving towards modern managerial management. Over the years, we have been able to transform industry challenges into growth opportunities, always keeping authenticity and attention to detail at the center—elements that define our entrepreneurial identity.
Agnese, what were the motivations that pushed you to continue the family business and what needs do you think you satisfy?
A: I grew up in a family where hospitality was never just a job, but a lifestyle. Seeing my parents passionately build a reality like the Mencarelli Group passed on to me the value of welcoming, attention to detail, and the human relationship with the client. Continuing this activity means, for me, guarding an important tradition, but also continuously innovating. I believe that today people look for authentic experiences, quality, emotions, and personalized attention: our goal is precisely to make every guest feel welcomed and special.
Throughout your entire work experience, what is the most valuable lesson you have learned so far?
D: The biggest lesson? That you never stop learning and that humility is the key to everything. We understood that you can have the most beautiful venue in the world, but without humanity and the ability to truly connect with those in front of you, they remain just walls and plates. Kindness, in the end, is the best investment one can make.
A: The most important lesson I’ve learned is that success comes from the ability to listen to and truly satisfy the customer. In our industry, it is not enough to offer a good service: you must create emotions, anticipate needs, and work every day with passion and team spirit. I also understood how fundamental consistency and humility are, because every event and every guest represent a new challenge.
Are there work challenges you are facing now and, if so, how are you overcoming them?
D: Challenges are never lacking! Today, the difficult part is managing to make everything balance without losing enthusiasm, especially with rising costs and the struggle to find collaborators who have that “sparkle” in their eyes. How do we overcome them? By teaming up among ourselves, speaking openly, and trying never to lose our good mood, which is our secret fuel.
A: The world of hospitality and catering is constantly evolving. Today, one of the greatest challenges is managing to maintain high quality standards while adapting to market changes and the new needs of customers, who are increasingly attentive to the overall experience, sustainability, and service personalization. We are facing these challenges by investing in staff training, innovation, and by enhancing the local territory and Umbrian excellence, without losing the identity that has distinguished us for years.
What are the next goals you have set for yourselves to see your company grow?
D: We want to grow this “creature” by making it more and more in step with the times, perhaps with a few technological touches to simplify our lives, but without ever losing its soul. Our dream is for our business to become an even stronger point of reference for the territory, a place where people return because they know there is something special here.
A: My goal is to continue growing the group by maintaining a strong bond with the territory, but at the same time expanding our presence in the hospitality and events sector even further. I would like to consolidate the idea of high-quality hospitality capable of combining tradition and innovation, investing in new experiences for guests and in the enhancement of our historical structures and event locations.
Finally, what advice would you give to a young woman who wants to start an entrepreneurial path like yours?
D: Girls, jump in, but do it with your head! Don’t let anyone tell you that this is a “man’s job” or too tiring. Follow your instinct, study hard, and, above all, never give up on your sensitivity: it is precisely that attention to detail and that care for feelings that makes us unique in doing business. Be tenacious and you will shine.
A: I would say to believe deeply in your own abilities and not to be afraid of responsibilities. Doing business requires determination, sacrifice, and a lot of passion, but it is also a path that gives great satisfaction. It is important to surround yourself with capable people, continue to learn every day, and face difficulties with a positive spirit. Being a woman in the entrepreneurial world today means being able to bring sensitivity, vision, and organizational skills: precious qualities, especially in the hospitality sector.
Info: www.mencarelligroup.com
