In a constantly evolving world where environmental, economic, and social crises are intensifying, businesses are increasingly required to adapt and innovate in order to survive. But can challenges be turned into opportunities? And how can small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), often operating with limited resources, compete with major market players? The answer may lie in a virtuous combination of resilience and sustainability.
This is the theme explored in the paper Sustainable business model and organisational resilience: a case study of an Italian winery enterprise” by Gianfranco Pischedda, Katia Corsi, Ludovico Marinò and Nicoletta Fadda of the Department of Economics and Business at the University of Sassari.
The case of Cantine Settesoli, a Sicilian winery founded in 1958, offers a powerful example. Located in Menfi, in the heart of Sicily, the company not only produces high-quality wines but also works to “grow the future”, operating with social responsibility and environmental awareness. In 2020, its commitment was recognised with the “VIVA Sustainable Wine” certification, an important milestone in the field of sustainability in the wine industry.
Cantine Settesoli is not just a wine producer: it generates value for the local community, promotes social and ecological initiatives, and adopts innovative strategies to address global challenges. From reducing chemical treatments and using solar energy, to eco-friendly packaging and creating natural fertilisers from by-products, every decision reflects a strong sustainability ethos.
But how does this connect to resilience? The study reveals that the company’s ability to adapt, particularly during the Covid-19 pandemic, was strengthened by its sustainable approach. The digitalisation of events and the expansion of e-commerce are just two examples of how Settesoli managed to remain competitive during difficult times.
The case of Cantine Settesoli suggests that resilience and sustainability not only coexist but also reinforce each other. Sustainability becomes a driver of innovation and resilience, while resilience enables more effective and lasting implementation of sustainable practices.
Would you like to learn how sustainability can become a strategic lever for building resilience?
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Pischedda, G., Corsi, K., Marinò, L., & Fadda, N. (2021). Sustainable business model and organisational resilience: a case study of an Italian winery enterprise. Promoting Committee, 9.
