On August 4, 2025, Alessandra Balocco, the president and CEO of the historic confectionery company Balocco SpA in Fossano (Cuneo), passed away. The news was confirmed by Mayor Dario Tallone, who declared a day of mourning on the date of the funeral. Balocco was regarded as the cornerstone of a family business that had faced significant losses and challenging obstacles in recent years, despite her reserved demeanor and limited media exposure. Alessandra represented the third generation of the Balocco family, following in the footsteps of founder Francesco Antonio. She took over the company in October 2022, a few months following the deaths of her father Aldo and brother Alberto. The former passed away at the age of 91, while the latter was tragically struck by lightning during a mountain cycle excursion. Many have referred to it as a "perfect storm”, a period in which Alessandra confronted with a sense of responsibility and determination. "I am obligated to persevere; I owe it to Alberto and to our colleagues”, she said in an interview with La Stampa. Alessandra Balocco had more than thirty years of experience prior to assuming the role of CEO, having entered the organization in 1990. The family's vision was continued by her, with an emphasis on innovation, continuity, and local origins. In 2023, the company reached a turnover of €254 million, employing 500 people and operating in over 67 countries. Additionally, she fortified its dedication to sustainability by investing in low-impact processes and photovoltaic systems. She also encountered critical moments during her presidency, such as the investigation into the "Pink Christmas" campaign she ran in collaboration with Chiara Ferragni, who was subsequently investigated for aggravated fraud. The succession was already partially underway when Diletta, Alberto's eldest daughter, entered the company in October 2022, alongside her mother, Assunta Pinto, a member of the board of directors. Alessandra had repeatedly expressed her desire to continue along the path laid out by her father, maintaining economic stability and valuing human capital — the true beating heart of both the company and the Fossano community.