The twice-weekly sessions, dubbed ‘Lara’s Italian Workshop’, are led by Aermec’s Italian business support administrator and linguist Lara Musina. Held at the Rochford offices and streamed online for remote staff, the classes have already helped managing director Paul Lawrence become conversationally proficient. While most employees at Aermec’s Bevilacqua factory speak English, UK staff were keen to learn Italian to foster closer collaboration, and, as some admit, to make holidays more enjoyable.

Lara Musina is thrilled by the enthusiasm: “Learning a new language brings everyone together, provides a better cultural understanding of our colleagues across the Aermec family. As we are a global company with an international customer base, learning Italian will help develop and improve client relationships and access new markets.”

She added, “Life is all about new experiences, learning no matter where you are in your career or business and showing a commitment to professional development. As we say in Italy, Meglio tardi che mai – better late than never!”