DiscoverBusiness Without Bullsh-tCulture Expert Explains The Difference Between UK and Italian Business Practices
Culture Expert Explains The Difference Between UK and Italian Business Practices

Culture Expert Explains The Difference Between UK and Italian Business Practices

Update: 2025-09-10
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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

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Culture Expert Explains The Difference Between UK and Italian Business Practices

Culture Expert Explains The Difference Between UK and Italian Business Practices