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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If you'd like to be on the show, get in contact - mail@businesswithoutbullshit.me