Francesco Merloni, Former Head of Whirlpool, Dies at 83
Industrialist Francesco Merloni, who led Italian home appliance giant Whirlpool for decades, has died at the age of 83.
Merloni, who was born in Fabriano, Italy, in 1939, took over the family business, Merloni Elettrodomestici, in 1975. Under his leadership, the company grew into one of the world's largest home appliance manufacturers, with brands including Whirlpool, KitchenAid, and Maytag.
Merloni was known for his innovative spirit and his commitment to quality. He was also a strong advocate for the Italian economy and served as president of the Italian Industrialists' Association from 1998 to 2000.
In 2014, Merloni stepped down as chairman of Whirlpool and was succeeded by his son, Vittorio. He remained active in the company as honorary chairman until his death.
Merloni's death is a major loss for the Italian business community. He was a respected leader and a tireless advocate for the country's economy.
Here are some additional details about Francesco Merloni's life and career:
- Merloni was born in Fabriano, Italy, in 1939.
- He took over the family business, Merloni Elettrodomestici, in 1975.
- Under his leadership, the company grew into one of the world's largest home appliance manufacturers.
- Merloni was known for his innovative spirit and his commitment to quality.
- He was also a strong advocate for the Italian economy and served as president of the Italian Industrialists' Association from 1998 to 2000.
- In 2014, Merloni stepped down as chairman of Whirlpool and was succeeded by his son, Vittorio.
- He remained active in the company as honorary chairman until his death.
