Brunello Cucinelli, a successful Italian entrepreneur, bases his business model on humanistic capitalism. This model revolves around respecting the dignity of workers, ensuring they are paid decent wages and provided with comfortable working conditions. Cucinelli’s company, operating in a 14th-century Umbrian hamlet, offers employees a gourmet canteen, subsidised housing, and a 90-minute lunch break.
Cucinelli believes that profit should not be the sole purpose of a company, but rather, it should aim to improve society. His approach to business mirrors his philosophy of life: balance between profit and ethics, work and leisure. He emphasises the importance of ‘otium’ – a Latin term for leisure time used for intellectual and creative pursuits.
Cucinelli’s philosophy extends to his product pricing, which is high to ensure fair pay for workers. He believes that customers are willing to pay more for products made under ethical conditions. His success supports this notion, with his company’s revenue increasing steadily over the years.
In a world where many companies exploit their workers, Cucinelli’s humanistic capitalism provides an alternative model. It proves that businesses can be profitable while respecting workers’ rights and contributing positively to society.
Go to source article: http://intenseminimalism.com/2015/brunello-cucinelli-on-humanistic-capitalism-business-life-and-otium/