Francis Ford Coppola
'One can learn quite a lot from Riccardo Illy's new book, The Art of Excellent Products, a survey of business practices and conclusions in modern Italy and actually, the world. He discusses and outlines what he terms an 'Incanto' business, one that continues along amid history lessons and the intimacies of all family businesses, which is interesting and most rewarding. I'd recommend reading this book as well as the enjoyment of all the illy products.'
Frances Mayes
'While reading The Art of Excellent Products, my first reaction was surprise. I expected a story of Riccardo Illy's family businesses but instead, he writes with great verve and certainty about better goals—vision, surprise, delight, planning that survives for generations, and sopratutto, quality. This is not only the Illy way but the way of the many world-renowned Italian businesses. By revealing the practices of these firms, Illy finds patterns of core values. And where did their values originate, these makers of cars, clothing, wine, furniture, even pastries and pianos? This is the best message of all. Not from soaring profits and world recognition but from the artistic heritage and the generous beauty of the land, which inspire artisans and entrepreneurs toward their own commitment to beauty. Hard-hitting advice, humor, life lessons, originality—all these surprise every page.'
Susan Ennis
'In The Art of Excellent Products, Riccardo Illy's vision of Incanto is a 21st century concept for age-old product excellence and will inspire both business owners and employees across a multitude of endeavors. Land and water and air are inextricable; so too are beauty, perfection and sustainability. Bravissimo to the author of this inspiring philosophy, who is also the steward of Gruppo illy brands, for his intelligence and insights.'
