Gruppo Carma
One of the historical conglomerate of the knitwear district of Carpi, established in 1946 by Maria Martinelli, a figurehead of local business. The start of mechanization of manufacturing processed is credited to Martinelli. Her factory was among the first to introduce electronics and to make an investment in technological innovation. After producing knitwear for several brands and companies, in 1975 the Group created its own brand, I Maschi, for men’s sportswear and casual clothing. Shortly afterwards a line was created in collaboration with Jean-Charles de Castelbajac, which was a total look in men and women’s clothing. More recently a brand was launched, aiming at a young and trendy clientele, named Simultaneous. The various companies of the Group are located in an area within 322 miles from the Carpi’s headquarters. They produce about 500,000 pieces a year for a total turnover of more than 40 billion liras. 77% of the turnover is generated from export to Japan, USA, Europe, and Korea.