Ninety-four years of a life dedicated to work, family, and his own land. Cavalier Ernesto Gazzola, founder of Gaerne in Coste di Maser (Tv), celebrates a special milestone, continuing to represent the soul and values of a company that, starting from a small artisanal workshop at the foot of the Asolo hills, has become a brand known and appreciated worldwide.

From first shoes to international success
Ernesto Gazzola's story begins at just 13 years old, when he starts working as a shoemaker's apprentice, learning a craft made of manual skill, sacrifice, and attention to detail.

In the following years he works in the factory during the day and, in the evening, continues to make footwear on his own, supported by his wife Vittoria, a fundamental figure in his life and in building the company. With a Vespa he reaches the Montebelluna market to propose the first handcrafted shoes.

In 1962 Gaerne is officially born, a name that combines the initials of the founder's surname and first name: GAzzola ERNEsto. From the first mountain boots, the company progressively expands production, specializing in technical footwear for motorcycling and cycling.

Today, 64 years after its founding, Gaerne has 66 employees, a turnover of 23 million euros, and realizes 90% of its sales abroad. An international success built while maintaining firm roots: Made in Italy production, artisanal quality, technological innovation, and the connection with the territory of Maser, where the company continues to operate.

Three generations, the same values
One of the most significant aspects of this story is family continuity. Alongside Ernesto, his children Gianna, Gianni, and Marta have contributed to the growth and consolidation of Gaerne, accompanying the evolution from artisanal workshop to international industrial reality.

Today the third generation is also an active part of this journey, with nephew Andrea engaged in developing the company and building its future.

Three generations united by the same philosophy: respect for people, passion for work, attention to quality, and the will to innovate without forgetting one's origins.

The passion for olive trees and oil: the roots of a life
But there is another passion that tells the story of Ernesto Gazzola outside the company: his love for olive trees and the production of his own olive oil. Among the hills of Maser, Ernesto continues to dedicate himself to his olive trees, following with passion the care of the plants, the harvest of olives, and the production of his oil. A special satisfaction for someone who has always believed in the value of things made with his own hands.

«To make good oil you need time, patience, and care. To build a company it's the same thing: you must work with passion, respect people, and never forget where you started from».

A philosophy that has accompanied Ernesto throughout his life and that continues to represent the most precious heritage passed on to new generations. At 94 years old, Cavalier Ernesto Gazzola remains a point of reference for the family and for all the people who work at Gaerne. His story is also that of a territory and of a generation of entrepreneurs who, with sacrifice, courage, and determination, have contributed to bringing Made in Italy to the world.

Because, just like the olive trees so loved by Ernesto, a company too can extend its branches far only when it preserves deep roots. Happy 94th birthday, Cavalier Gazzola.