Some countries and continents feel like they’re worlds away, with little connection to Italy or the Dolomites. This might be the case for Mexico, if not for the strong bond between Davide Pedrolli – founder of Dolomita – and Stefano Perlasca. Their friendship and collaboration have bridged the gap, bringing Italian excellence to Latin American markets.
Today, we are pleased to interview Stefano Perlasca, a key Dolomita collaborator working across Mexico and Latin America.
Dolomita: Stefano, thank you for joining us. Let’s start from the beginning. Can you tell us about your friendship with Davide Pedrolli and how your collaboration began?
Stefano: Thank you! Davide and I met while studying Law at the University of Trento, focusing on European and Transnational studies. We shared a deep interest in the food and beverage sector and in Italian excellence, which led us both to write our theses on Food Law. This mutual passion forged a strong friendship and sparked ideas that extended far beyond the classroom.
Dolomita: Tell us more about your professional journey and how you ended up in Mexico.
Stefano: My path has been quite diverse. After graduating from university in Trento, I began working as a trainee lawyer in Italy, but I felt drawn to international opportunities. I moved to Brussels for a European-focused experience, inspired in part by a suggestion from Davide. Later, I relocated to Rotterdam in the Netherlands, where I worked with a startup and launched my first business.
Next came Fuerteventura in Spain, where I embraced remote work as a digital marketing consultant and copywriter. In October 2022, I decided to take a break and visit Mexico for the first time – the land of my grandmother, who was Mexican. Despite her stories and influence throughout my childhood, I’d never experienced the country firsthand. Just with a backpack and a one-way ticket, I started my journey and it was love at first sight.
Dolomita: Speaking of Mexico, what made you decide to stay?
Stefano: Mexico was a revelation. In Italy, we often associate it with clichés like Caribbean beaches, tequila, and Tex-Mex cuisine. But the reality is far richer: Mexico is a dynamic country with a young population, a thriving entrepreneurial spirit, and a rapidly growing economy. With over 130 million inhabitants, it’s the world’s 13th-largest economy and a key destination for “nearshoring.”
On a personal level, I encountered talented local professionals and a vibrant economic landscape. The opportunities I saw inspired me to build something here.
Dolomita: Can you explain “nearshoring” and why it’s so significant?
Stefano: Of course. Nearshoring refers to companies relocating production to countries closer to their target markets instead of distant locations like Asia. This trend is driven by geopolitical shifts and the need to reduce transport costs and time. Mexico, strategically positioned near the US and Canada, has become a prime industrial hub. Its relative economic stability, large domestic market, and youthful workforce make it an ideal partner for this type of operation. I believe Mexico will play an increasingly pivotal role on the global stage in the coming years.
Dolomita: You’ve also acquired Mexican citizenship, haven’t you?
Stefano: Yes, it felt like a natural step for me. Becoming a Mexican citizen represents a deep connection to this land and my family. It also allows me to navigate the local business landscape more effectively. Of course, I continue to proudly hold my Italian citizenship as well!
Dolomita: You’ve mentioned “building something.” Can you tell us about your projects in Mexico?
Stefano: Certainly. Within a few months of arriving, I co-founded Milvio, a consultancy firm that helps European businesses enter the Mexican and Latin American markets. Our goal is to act as a bridge between cultures and markets – hence the name Milvio, inspired by the iconic Ponte Milvio in Rome. We guide clients through every stage, from market research to sales, distribution, and business development.
I also became a partner at GreenStar Consuming Goods, where we bring Italian excellence to Mexico, including VETZ, a natural Italian aperitif that has been very well received by the market. Additionally, I collaborate with Ermete Consulting led by Marco Ustulin: another Italian professional with extensive experience in the Latin American and Mexican markets as well as a friend and a trusted business partner. Together, we manage a curated portfolio of Italian food and beverage products, distributed across major retail chains and the Horeca sector. We carefully select products to align with local tastes and consumer needs.
Dolomita: What’s your approach when working with Italian producers?
Stefano: Transparency is key for us. We don’t make unrealistic promises but offer a deep understanding of the local market and its dynamics. We only work with products we genuinely believe in, which helps us build strong, lasting relationships with producers. Trust is at the heart of everything we do.
Dolomita: Do you travel back to Europe often?
Stefano: Yes, I frequently travel to Europe, especially for events like Cibus, TuttoFood, and Vinitaly. These fairs are essential for maintaining relationships with producers and staying up to date with the latest trends. They’re also great opportunities to meet Davide and discuss our future projects.
Dolomita: You’ve also founded a community in Mexico City called “Doing Business in Mexico.” What’s it about?
Stefano: “Doing Business in Mexico” was created to connect entrepreneurs, professionals, and digital nomads interested in the Mexican market. We host monthly events featuring expert panels on various business topics, providing a space for sharing ideas and fostering synergies. Since our first gathering in early 2023 with just 20 people at a taqueria, the platform has grown into a dynamic community of over 1,500 active members, supported by high-profile sponsors. These events also serve as an excellent platform for testing and promoting the Italian products we distribute.
Dolomita: Finally, what’s your vision for the future?
Stefano: I firmly believe in the power of relationships and the exchange of cultures, products, and traditions. This belief has driven my journey and strengthened my friendship and collaboration with Davide.
Dolomita is an ambitious project that shares the stories and excellence that make Italy special on a global scale. I’m proud to contribute to this mission here in Mexico and Latin America, building bridges that enrich both sides.
