Our Company History
It all began in 1919 when, Gioachino Zanetti, the father of one of the founders of Zanetti & Company Ltd. came to England from Italy.
Gioachino’s father ran a large construction company in Buenos Aires, until 1900. After The Great War, Gioachino decided to travel in search of work and came to Bristol. He initially worked laying terrazzo floors and plied his trade throughout the UK, securing his place as the local terrazzo legend.
In the early 1950’s Gioachino worked for Marble Flooring Specialists Ltd, laying terrazzo in schools, hospitals and stores. His son, Sante Zanetti, our current chairman and director, joined as an apprentice, aged 17.
By 26, Sante decided to branch out and formed a new company in conjunction with some colleagues. Before long, the Zanetti name became well known in its own right as the name associated with quality terrazzo installations.
In the following years the company acquired Marble Flooring Specialists Ltd., and then later The Bristol Marble Co. Ltd. These acquisitions enabled the company to enter into a wider field, encompassing terrazzo, mosaic, marble, granite and other stone finishes. Much like terrazzo itself, the company has lasted through many changes in the building industry.
Using its Italian background and knowledge, it is now able to purchase direct from the quarries and manufacturers in Italy, where specialist products are sourced.
We have travelled the world looking for new customers, ideas, products and innovations – introducing the latest machines, products and innovative materials to the stone industry.
We have always looked ahead, and take care of the small things as well as the big. Efficiency and progress always matter to us but we also like to retain our friendly, reliable approach to business.
Today, operating out of our six acre site in Bristol, our work can be found all around the world.