The President of the Italian Republic, Sergio Mattarella, has appointed Giorgio Girondi, Chairman of UFI Group, a Knight of the Order of Merit for Labour by decree dated 27 May 2026.
This is one of the most prestigious honours bestowed by the Italian State, awarded to entrepreneurs who have distinguished themselves through their contribution to the country’s economic, industrial and social development, promoting growth, innovation and responsibility.
“I accept this prestigious honour with immense emotion and a deep sense of gratitude,” said Giorgio Girondi. “I have dedicated my life to the growth and development of the company founded by my father, to whom I dedicate this appointment, together with my family and all the people—employees and collaborators—who every day help make UFI an international manufacturing champion and UFI Hydrogen one of the most innovative companies in Italy in the field of hydrogen.”
“Congratulations to all the entrepreneurs appointed Knights of Labour 2026; being awarded this honour means sharing values such as commitment, responsibility and vision.”
This appointment recognises an entrepreneurial journey built on determination, vision and the ability to innovate. Under Giorgio Girondi’s leadership, our company has grown into a global industrial group, a benchmark in filtration, thermal management and green hydrogen technologies, while remaining firmly rooted in the company’s founding values: excellence, care for people, and continuous research and innovation.
Born from his father’s entrepreneurial intuition, UFI Group experienced significant expansion starting in 1976, when Giorgio Girondi took over its leadership. From the early years, the company launched prestigious collaborations with Scuderia Ferrari, followed by supplies for road cars as well. Today, the Group supplies every Formula 1 team, and its technologies are chosen by 95% of automotive manufacturers worldwide.
With 22 plants worldwide, more than 70 million filters produced each year, over 360 patents and around 4,300 employees, UFI today represents an excellence of Italian manufacturing on an international level, with an ever-stronger focus on the technologies of the future.
Everyone at UFI Group extends their sincerest congratulations to Giorgio Girondi on this important achievement, which further strengthens the company’s commitment to innovation, sustainable growth, and a positive impact on the local area and the community.
The next appointment is on 17 June in Rome, at the “Lamaro Pozzani” University College of the Knights of Labour, where our Chairman will have the honour of meeting the other newly appointed members for the Welcome Ceremony.
