Capolo is one of the oldest European can manufacturers, with a long history dating back to the beginning of the 19th century. The company, now known as Trivium Packaging Italy srl, was established in Montecchio Emilia, in the Italian region of Emilia-Romagna, in 1910. The company was born as a “Casa del Popolo bianca”, a House of the People with a Catholic organization, which was quite rare in an area with a strong socialist sensibility.
Tomato cultivation was growing rapidly in the fertile plain around Parma, and the thriving canning industry needed more and more cans. The Montecchio organization aimed to provide work, training, education and social assistance to all members of the community.
The “Casas del Pueblo” were originally leisure and cultural centers for the working classes. The first establishment appeared in Russia in 1882, then soon became popular in England, Scotland, Turkey and other European states. The term was used more in Europe for working-class public community centers, each of which often had associations with particular unions and political parties.
In the first photo attached, you can see the workers in 1912, with the Secretary Don Guido Iori, the factory manager Silvio Minardi and the Director Giacomo Bolzoni.
During its long history, the company suffered heavy human losses during the two world wars, which hindered its development. Moreover, during the fascist regime, which was opposed to any form of cooperation, the name was changed from “CASA DEL POPOLO” to ” CA. PO.LO”. However, the company survived and prospered thanks to its qualified and motivated staff.
Today, Trivium Packaging Italy srl remains a leading company in the production of cans for the food and pharmaceutical industry, and its historical legacy continues to be an important part of its identity.
