Business Without BS Culture Expert Explains The Difference Between UK and Italian Business Practices
EP 405 - Is Italy an entrepreneur’s dream or a business nightmare compared to the UK?
In part 3 of our Business Without Baggage series, Andy speaks with corporate lawyer Marco Pistis about the cultural and legal contrasts between doing business in Italy and the UK.
From relationship-driven deals to bureaucracy that stifles scale, Marco explains why British companies often struggle in Italy - and what they can learn from its unique, trust-first culture.
What you’ll learn:
Why relationships and trust matter more than rules in Italy
The North-South divide: how culture, punctuality, and payments differ
How family-run businesses dominate the market - and what that means for outsiders
Why bureaucracy and employee protection laws slow scaling
How UK businesses can avoid costly mistakes when entering Italy
Where the real opportunities lie: Milan, the mid-market, and creative industries
Perfect for entrepreneurs, investors, and advisors looking to navigate UK - Italy business differences.
*For Apple Podcast chapters, access them from the menu in the bottom right corner of your player*
Spotify Video Chapters:
00:00 Business Without Baggage #3 Italy
00:41 Meet Marco Pistis: The Insider's Perspective
01:38 The Emotional Approach to Business
03:50 Friendship and Business in Italy
10:25 The Importance of Punctuality and Flexibility
16:10 Hierarchy and Family Businesses
23:20 Employee Expectations and Labour Laws
26:07 Cultural Cues and Misunderstandings
29:15 Cultural Taboos: Money and Religion
29:54 Negotiating Business Deals in Italy
31:56 The Importance of Food in Italian Business
33:34 Challenges and Stereotypes in Italian Business
34:34 Setting Up Business in Italy: Banking and Bureaucracy
37:50 Tax Benefits and Wealthy Expats in Italy
48:36 AI and Cultural Communication
49:58 !Business or Bullshit Quiz!
50:22 Wrap Up
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