Our history

“Without intelligence, there is no enterprise,” Mario Chiodini often used to say. A mechanic, blacksmith, and inventor, in 1945 he founded La Minerva in Bologna — a city with a strong mechanical and automotive tradition — choosing a name inspired by the Roman goddess of intelligence and ingenuity, reflecting the vision that would guide the company from the very beginning. At its first headquarters in Via del Parco, the company produced high-quality equipment for the catering sector, offering an excellent balance of quality, price, and durability. At his side were his wife Maria and his daughter Franca, who remains a guiding presence within the company.

As the economic recovery began, a larger facility became necessary to meet growing commercial ambitions. The reliability of Minerva products was quickly recognized, both in Italy and abroad. Exports began, along with participation in major international trade fairs. Mario Chiodini and his team continued to expand the company, mentoring many young apprentices in mechanical craftsmanship — several of whom would go on to build long careers within the organization. The team was joined by Mr. Franco Salati, Franca's husband, who oversaw administrative and commercial activities.

Rapid economic growth transformed lifestyles at every level. The commercial landscape also changed: the first supermarkets emerged, and retail shops such as butcheries and delicatessens upgraded their equipment to improve customer service.La Minerva required new space and new machinery to increase production capacity and meet rising demand for meat and food processing equipment. The company relocated to Via Massarenti, where it remained until 2003.

La Minerva continued to grow. The founder’s grandchildren — Elisabetta, Andrea, and Daniele — joined the company, taking on different roles according to their specific expertise.The company embarked on a new and ongoing transformation process by investing in modern CNC machine tools. New types of systems were designed and manufactured. With particular attention to consumer health, the first refrigerated meat mincer was developed.

Strong entrepreneurial leadership combined with a marketing-oriented managerial mindset led La Minerva to acquire and incorporate several strategic competitors: first Artex of Bologna, then Omega, owner of other historic and internationally recognized brands such as CEG, General Machine, Regina, and Suprema.Construction began on a new production facility in the Roveri district, the largest industrial area in Bologna and one of the most important in Italy.

Minerva Omega Group was established, now managed by the second and third generations of the Chiodini family. The merger between La Minerva and Omega FoodTech represented not only the union of two Italian excellences in food processing equipment, but also the beginning of an increasingly solid and international growth path.By enhancing technical know-how, industrial organization, and commercial networks, the Group developed a complete and integrated range of solutions for meat and food processing, driven by innovation.

In 2022, Minerva Omega Group acquired GAM International, a historic Italian company specialized in professional catering and Ho.Re.Ca. equipment.This strategic step further strengthened the Group’s vision: offering an even broader, more versatile, and synergistic range of solutions dedicated to professionals working with passion in the food sector.It also consolidated the Group’s international presence, its ongoing commitment to innovation, and its ability to respond to evolving market challenges.

In 2025, Minerva Omega Group celebrates 80 years of activity — a significant milestone that reflects the pride of a journey built on dedication, ingenuity, and industrial vision. From a family business to a global reference in food processing and preparation, the Group has grown while remaining true to its roots.Eighty years of innovation, long-standing relationships with customers, suppliers, and partners, and know-how developed in the field. An anniversary that is not a finishing line, but a new beginning toward even more ambitious goals.