Strengthening Italian Business Footprint in Louisiana
On February 10, 2020, the Italy-America Chamber of Commerce Texas expanded its presence by opening a New Orleans branch in partnership with the Southern Food and Beverage Museum (SoFAB). This initiative was a strategic move to build stronger commercial ties between Italian businesses and the local business community across Louisiana, Arkansas, and Oklahoma.
Supporting Food and Wine Trade
New Orleans' deep-rooted Italian heritage and its prominent role in the food and beverage industry made it an ideal location for Italy-America Chamber of Commerce of Texas to establish a new branch. The Chamber aims to connect Italian food, wine, and hospitality businesses with local industry leaders, fostering commercial partnerships and market growth.
Leadership in New Orleans
Liz Williams – Branch Director
EMAIL: l.williams@iacctexas.com
Promoting Food Heritage
The New Orleans branch is led by Liz Williams, a renowned food historian, author, and founder of the Southern Food and Beverage Museum. Being of Sicilian descent, Liz has long been an advocate for preserving and promoting Italian food culture in New Orleans and beyond. She also serves as the President of the National Food & Beverage Foundation, focusing on the cultural significance of food and drink.
Boosting Food Industry Ties
Liz’s leadership in the New Orleans branch is pivotal in driving new business relationships, curating networking events, and strengthening the Italian-American food and beverage market in Louisiana.
Enhancing Regional Collaboration
The establishment of the New Orleans branch aligns with Italy-America Chamber of Commerce of Texas' broader vision of expanding commercial opportunities for Italian companies throughout the Southern United States. By working closely with local institutions and businesses, the Chamber facilitates trade missions, organizes industry events, and strengthens cross-cultural commercial ties.
Broadening Regional Impact
According to Italy-America Chamber of Commerce of Texas Executive Director, Alessia Paolicchi, the decision to open a New Orleans office was a natural step given the Chamber’s successful initiatives in Texas. This expansion now allows the Italy-America Chamber of Commerce of Texas to serve businesses across Louisiana, Arkansas, and Oklahoma with more localized support.
Building Stronger Alliances
“We’ve already been working with Louisiana-based companies for over two years, especially in the food and wine industry. Opening this branch will now allow us to deepen those relationships and foster even more growth.”
- Alessia Paolicchi, Executive Director, Italy-America Chamber of Commerce of Texas
Enhancing Multistate Presence
Deputy Director Maurizio Gamberucci emphasized that having a physical presence in New Orleans significantly enhances the Chamber’s capacity to connect with businesses across multiple states, offering hands-on guidance and support for Italian companies aiming to enter or expand within the U.S. market.