Milano Unica has now officially announced Simone Canclini as its new president, following Première Vision’s example in designating Florence Rousson as board chairwoman. He takes over for Alessandro Barberis Canonico, who took over in the midst of the 2020 Covid epidemic. After four years in office, his term came to an end in February with the 38th edition of the Italian textile fair held in Milan.

Simone Canclini is the third generation of the Canclini textile company, which was established in 1925 by his grandfather Giuseppe Canclini in the area known for producing Italian silk, close to Lake Como. He joined the family firm in the 1990s and has led it as CEO with the help of his cousin Mauro Canclini, the company’s creative director.

Canclini Tessile, which is currently based in Guanzate near Como, began by specializing in silk for women’s lingerie. However, in the late 1970s, the company expanded into men’s shirts and cotton fabric became its main line of business. The company has moved toward the premium market under Simone Canclini’s direction, providing fabrics designed for high-end fashion houses including Dior, Hermès, Prada, and Zegna. With a turnover of 50 million euros and 250 employees, the factory expanded into technical fibers and linen after acquiring a knitwear company in 2017.

The Italian trade show highlighted in a statement that the new president “embodies for Milano Unica a pledge to excellence and the continuity of unwavering commitment towards the growth of the textile and accessories market in the premium and luxury segments.”

Simone Canclini is president of the Fondazione del Tessile Italiano, which unites Italian cotton and linen companies from the former Associazione Cotoniera e Liniera. He has been a member of Milano Unica’s board of directors for many years. As of right now, he has the position of curator of his first Milano Unica show, which will take place in Milan from July 9–11, 2024.

Alessandro Barberis Canonico will continue to lead IdeaBiella, the exhibition’s part devoted to luxury textiles, until spring 2025 while he is still a member of Milano Unica’s board of directors.