Francesco Trapani, a prominent figure in the luxury market and a descendant of the Bulgari dynasty, died at the age of 68. For over thirty years he led the maison founded in 1884 as CEO, transforming it from Italian excellence into a leading player on the international scene. Trapani, the grandson of Gianni, Paolo, and Nicola Bulgari, took over the company in 1984. He paved the way for Bulgari to become not only an icon of "Made in Italy" but also a brand that could compete on an equal footing with the French and American titans, combining a cosmopolitan vision and a management style that blended family tradition and global strategies. Under his direction, the Roman fashion house expanded at an unparalleled rate, creating stores in the most famous capitals from Europe to the United States, as well as the Middle and Far East. Trapani successfully captured Italian ingenuity, exporting it to sophisticated markets and establishing the brand as a synonym of elegance and innovation. "With deep sadness, Bulgari mourns the passing of Francesco Trapani, a visionary leader and key figure in our recent history", reads the statement released by the maison. “His entrepreneurial spirit and tireless pursuit of excellence contributed to redefining the standards of modern luxury".