The Sicilian Way: How to Build Strong Alliances

Recently, I had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Elvis—a true gentleman and the successful owner of an import-export company specializing in specialty foods. From the start, it was clear we were on similar journeys: both dedicated, both passionate, both putting in the hours and resources to turn our ideas into reality.

Elvis’s company offers some truly outstanding products, including Santal fruit juice and a great line of coffee and espresso machines. I was genuinely impressed not just by his business, but by the way he carries himself—honest, driven, and open-minded.

In business, words sometimes get lost, and intentions can be misunderstood. To keep things clear, I suggested we put our ideas and intentions into a contract. Without hesitation, Elvis said he was interested in collaborating, even if he’d never worked with a contract like mine before. But as we talked, we realized that sometimes the strongest agreements are built on trust, not just paper.

In the end, we sealed our new partnership the old-fashioned way: with a handshake, a bottle of wine, and true words between us. That’s the Sicilian way—real relationships, real trust, and a genuine commitment to building something great together.

Here’s to new beginnings and honest partnerships.

Rosario Marotta
Owner, Marotta IEWD & Sicilian Thing