The birth of the Group

1999 - 2000
In 1999 control of the company passes to Morgan Grenfell Private Equity. The following year Piaggio USA inaugurates the first Vespa Boutique in Los Angeles, an event which signals the brand’s return to the country; to date, 60 such boutiques have been opened in the USA.

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2001
The Piaggio Group incorporates Derbi-Nacional Motor S.A. well established Spanish motorcycle manufacturer and leader in the small engined sector. In the same year Gilera returns to the racing circuit and immediately scores an international victory, taking Manuel Poggiali to the title of world motorcycle champion in the 125cc class. To date Gilera has secured its place in the motorcycle racing firmament, having won 6 international titles itself and taken 7 riders to victory as world champions.

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2003
Transfer of management control of Piaggio’s Italian and offshore operations to stock exchange listed industrial and services holding group IMMSI S.p.A., controlled by entrepreneur Roberto Colaninno. In the same year changes to Piaggio’s management structure see Mr Colaninno nominated Group Chairman with Rocco Sabelli as Chief Executive Officer and Gianclaudio Neri as General Manager.

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