by Maximiliano Crocamo
Interview: FVG councilor for production works, Sergio Bini
Twenty-three businesses across Friuli Venezia Giulia were recognized this week for their decades-long contribution to the region’s commercial and cultural life, receiving official designations as either Locale Storico (Historic Establishment) or Attività Storica (Historic Business).
The awards were presented in Trieste by Sergio Emidio Bini, the regional councillor for productive activities and tourism. Speaking at the ceremony, Bini emphasized the significance of maintaining the integrity and appeal of long-standing businesses. “Earning recognition as a ‘Historic Establishment’ or ‘Historic Business’ carries prestige and attracts customers,” he said, noting that such status requires businesses to commit to restoration, conservation, and ongoing upkeep.
To support these efforts, the regional government has earmarked more than €2.7 million over the next three years. A dedicated funding line—part of a newly approved consolidated commerce code—is expected to open in the second half of 2026.
Bini pointed to long-standing regulatory burdens as one factor contributing to current economic challenges, arguing that rules introduced over time may have unintentionally slowed growth. “Just as regulations are created, they can be reconsidered,” he said, adding that broader changes at the European Union level would be needed to produce substantial improvements.
Under the revised regional law, businesses seeking recognition must demonstrate at least 60 years of continuous operation. Historic establishments must also be housed in architecturally significant buildings or contain furnishings and tools of notable cultural or artistic value.
The newly honored businesses span the region, reflecting its varied commercial heritage. In Trieste, recognition went to Pertot Foderami, a long-standing shop known for its traditional craftsmanship. In Gorizia, the Bora Bar in Lucinico received the designation.
Monfalcone saw numerous recipients, including the Antica Vetreria Monfalconese, Il Bottone, Gioielleria Cernigoi, Pelletterie Dejust and Manfrini, Trevisan Mario (established in 1959), Alimentari Bais, Calzature Guisar, and Rivendita Colautti.
Other awardees include La Casa del Salotto in Ronchi dei Legionari; Fabiani Stefano in Paularo; and Là di Gusto in Pozzuolo del Friuli. Additional historic establishments were recognized in smaller localities: Antica Osteria al Centro in Prossenicco (Taipana), Osteria Il Grappolo d’Oro in Colle di Arba, Tabaccheria Scian in Cordenons, and Trattoria Marcandella in Polcenigo.
In Ragogna, the honors went to the m.acelleria Eredi Clara Beppino and Osteria da Valter, while the historic designation in Sesto al Reghena was awarded to the Farmacia dei Sani. The list concludes in Spilimbergo, where the Panificio Pasticceria Giordani and Trattoria Agli Amici in the hamlet of Istrago were recognized.
Regional officials described the event as part of a broader effort to preserve and promote the area’s commercial heritage, celebrating businesses that have helped define community identity for generations.
