EP 405 - Is Italy an entrepreneur’s dream or a business nightmare compared to the UK? In part 3 of our Business Without Baggage series, Andy speaks with corporate lawyer Marco Pistis about the cultural and legal contrasts between doing business in Italy and the UK.From relationship-driven deals to bureaucracy that stifles scale, Marco explains why British companies often struggle in Italy - and what they can learn from its unique, trust-first culture.What you’ll learn:Why relationships and trust matter more than rules in ItalyThe North-South divide: how culture, punctuality, and payments differHow family-run businesses dominate the market - and what that means for outsidersWhy bureaucracy and employee protection laws slow scalingHow UK businesses can avoid costly mistakes when entering ItalyWhere the real opportunities lie: Milan, the mid-market, and creative industriesPerfect for entrepreneurs, investors, and advisors looking to navigate UK - Italy business differences.*For Apple Podcast chapters, access them from the menu in the bottom right corner of your player*Spotify Video Chapters:00:00 Business Without Baggage #3 Italy00:41 Meet Marco Pistis: The Insider's Perspective01:38 The Emotional Approach to Business03:50 Friendship and Business in Italy10:25 The Importance of Punctuality and Flexibility16:10 Hierarchy and Family Businesses23:20 Employee Expectations and Labour Laws26:07 Cultural Cues and Misunderstandings29:15 Cultural Taboos: Money and Religion29:54 Negotiating Business Deals in Italy31:56 The Importance of Food in Italian Business33:34 Challenges and Stereotypes in Italian Business34:34 Setting Up Business in Italy: Banking and Bureaucracy37:50 Tax Benefits and Wealthy Expats in Italy48:36 AI and Cultural Communication49:58 !Business or Bullshit Quiz!50:22 Wrap UpWatch and subscribe to us on YouTubeFollow us:InstagramTikTokLinkedinTwitterFacebookIf you'd like to be on the show, get in contact - [email protected]

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“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.

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