MC Quadro Conceria, The power of creativity

A true laboratory of ideas and craftsmanship. This is the best way to describe MC Quadro Conceria, an enterprise headquartered in Solofra (Avellino province), able to provide its clientele with an ample array of leather finishing techniques – ranging from digital printing, boasting high definition and excellent chromatic performances, to silk-screen printing, from laser processes to hot stamping, from the application of films up to many other options conceived to ensure complete customization. A firm that, over the years, has managed to skilfully combine long-standing tanning tradition with the utmost commitment to research, to technological innovation and to sustainable development. Antonio Covino, CEO and founder, analysed in detail the remarkable growth experienced by his company, now part of the Evolution Lab business network – an initiative that allows to bring together the resources and skills of two of Italy’s most prominent tanning districts, that is, Campania and Tuscany, Solofra and Santa Croce sull’Arno (Pisa province).
What is MC Quadro Conceria’s core business?
We do not deal solely with classic finishing procedures. Since I joined my father’s company, I have been looking for innovative solutions. Our key strength has always lied not only in the purchase of hi-tech, cutting-edge machinery, but also in the keen eye for peculiar products, on special processes that tanneries could not carry out in-house. More specifically, digital printing, high frequency, silk- screen printing, laser, and other high-level techniques. In other words, we pay close attention to unique ideas, concepts that stand out from classic solutions. Our clientele comprises luxury and high-end fashion brands as well, constantly on the lookout for one-of-a-kind articles.
So, you do not process only sheepskins and goatskins, Solofra’s specialty, but you deal with every type of leather, right?
That’s correct. After all, our working methods have greatly changed over the years. In the past, we used to focus on whole hides, whereas now we deal mainly with cut hides. For example, a customer turning to us to finish a handbag, will send us the article in separate pieces and we are going to finish every single part. We keep producing leathers, because we still take care of the Solofra-based market, but, right now, whole hides are no longer our core business. For this reason, we had to reorganize our corporate structure, thus shaking up our habits.
Currently, MC Quadro Conceria is part of the Evolution Lab business network. What are the benefits guaranteed by this strategic choice?
Our firm is part of this network with two Tuscan enterprises, that share similar objectives and projects with us. More specifically, the bond established over twenty years ago with Art Lab, company based in Santa Croce sull’Arno, goes beyond the mere business partnership, but it is a true friendship based on transparency when it comes to both work-related factors and to the know-how. Today, we succeed in carrying out the same processes in Tuscany as well as in Solofra, in the same way, with the same parameters. Our firm is bit smaller compared to Art Lab, but we manage this initiative smoothly. Since its launch, the business network has proved to be an interesting resource and has earned the customers’ praise: as a matter of fact, during a complicated period such as the Covid19 emergency, it was possible to handle procedures in two separate regions, in two different districts, while ensuring the same processing techniques as well as top-notch results. Should any issue arise in Solofra, Santa Croce is ready to step in, and vice versa: in this way, we can ensure maximum efficiency and productivity, two pivotal factors for us. Basically, the business network brings together two different tanning districts, two companies sharing the same attitude, the same expertise and the same work ethic. Right now, we are handling a few important projects and, this year, we expect a significant growth for our tannery.
When was MC Quadro Conceria founded?
I founded it in 2006. I have been working in the leather industry for thirty years: immediately after the end of high school, I joined my father’s company, the old Conceria San Vito. He took his first steps in this business when he was still a boy, so he can rely on a long-standing experience. Today, I am striving to pass on my enthusiasm, my passion, my know-how to my daughters. As I mentioned before, MC Quadro’s adventure started 2006: to date, we can rely on a facility of approximately 2000 square meters and on a workforce of 17 people, but we hope to double said figure by the end of the year.
Is it a family-run business?
Yes, it is, but it is not just me and my daughters. Our whole team is part of the family. The company is our true home, we spend our days here, e we have been lucky enough to find people who are eager to share these values and this passion with us. People who know how to join forces, who come to work with enthusiasm, who do not shrink from sacrifices. We have an idyllic bond with our customers and the corporate management is peaceful, straightforward and transparent. Due to the business network, I split my time between Solofra and Santa Croce sull’Arno: every time I leave, I know the firm is in good hands. Our staff’s open- mindedness and resourcefulness have played a key role in the tannery’s growth.
As for sustainability, what is your stance on this issue?
We can proudly say that, this year, we have been awarded with the LWG (Leather Working Group, editor’s note) certification, gold level. A top-level recognition that bears witness to our commitment when it comes to the compliance with current regulations concerning sustainability, pollution and environmental safeguard. This is a favourable moment for us: we experienced some difficulties in the past, but my stubbornness helped me move forward without giving up. We hope to keep growing in the future too.

www.mcquadroconceria.it