In the lexicon of appointments, one cliché persists: the ‘new direction’. In Riva del Garda, they have chosen a different path. On 27 August 2026, the Board of Directors of Riva del Garda Fierecongressi, the company that organises Expo Riva Schuh and Gardabags, elected Enzo Bassetti as chairman, following the passing of Roberto Pellegrini. A choice in favour of continuity: Bassetti has been a member of the Board since 1998 (with a break from 2003 to 2016) and was reappointed in June 2025 as one of the seven directors for the three-year term 2025–2028. Those expecting a ‘year zero’ speech will be disappointed – and that is good news.
A LEGACY THAT CAN BE MEASURED. Pellegrini led the company from 2007, serving as chairman and chief executive. The letter in which the company paid tribute to him highlights the key stages of his strong commitment to global expansion: Expo Riva Schuh Middle East (2008–2009), Expo Riva Schuh India (2011–2013), and the consolidation of relations with China. The final act of his presidency was the 2025–2028 strategic plan, unanimously approved in November 2025: eight key areas, ranging from the expansion of the exhibition centre to a €6 million recapitalisa...