BERTOLLI
IT STARTED WITH A STORE IN 1865
Our story starts in Lucca, Tuscany in 1865. Francesco Bertolli and his wife, Caterina, open a small grocery store beneath their home, selling only the best quality regional wines, cheeses, olives and olive oil.
1875–TO AMERICA, WITH LOVE
Italian emigrants in America find themselves missing the food of their heritage. By 1875, they are asking Francesco Bertolli to send boxes of his famous olive oil, making Bertolli® brand the pioneer of olive oil in the USA.
THE FLAVOR GROWS IN 1890
In 1890, Francesco and Caterina's children take over the business, exporting the Bertolli® brand to new places. From Australia to South America to Africa, customers around the globe can now enjoy the taste of Tuscany.
BUILDING THE BRAND IN THE 1900S
In the early 1900s, customers everywhere start connecting Bertolli® with the simple authenticity of an Italian lifestyle and delicious food. The business booms as customers reach for the flavor they trust.
SETTING TRENDS IN THE 1940S
TV spots for the Bertolli® brand featuring animated characters "Olivella" and "Maria Rosa" become popular in Italy. Bertolli becomes well-known as a "brand," something relatively rare in Italy during the 1940s.
SAUCES TAKE OFF
Bertolli® customers enjoy Traditional Red and savory Alfredo sauces, made simply with bright, fresh ingredients for authentic Italian flavor.
INTRODUCING FROZEN SKILLET MEALS
Bertolli® introduces flavorful Frozen Skillet Meals, thoughtfully prepared in classic Italian tradition. Bertolli Olive Oil is now available in more than 40 countries around the world.
150 YEARS CELEBRATION IN 2015
In 2015, Bertolli® celebrates 150 years of delivering authentic Italian taste. Customers everywhere choose Bertolli for savory pasta sauces, quality oils and delightful frozen dinners.
ORGANIC OLIVE OILS ARRIVE IN 2016
In 2016, Bertolli® releases new Organic Olive Oils for the first time in the American market, continuing their history of health and innovation.
THE LEGACY CONTINUES
From Francesco Bertolli's first bottle of olive oil in 1865 to the quality Bertolli® products you enjoy today, the Bertolli legacy lives on through simple ingredients and authentic flavor.