Introduction
Leone SRL, is an Italian company based in Verona, Italy specialized in the production, aging and wholesale distribution of dairy products and cheeses. The company operates a comprehensive supply chain for cheese and dairy, including manufacturing, distribution, and certification.
The company joined the LIFE EE4HORECA project to strengthen its knowledge of energy efficiency and sustainability while preparing for future market and regulatory challenges. Through its participation in trainings and capacity-building activities, the company gained valuable insights into energy management, sustainability trends, and the opportunities offered by the energy transition.
The project also provided an opportunity to share knowledge across generations within the company and encourage younger employees to engage with European initiatives supporting innovation and sustainability.
The Challenge
Like many SMEs operating in the agri-food and hospitality value chain, Leone SRL had already invested in energy improvements to address specific operational needs. However, these investments were not part of a structured medium- or long-term energy strategy. As sustainability requirements increasingly extend throughout supply chains, the company recognized the need to move beyond isolated interventions and develop a more comprehensive approach to energy management, efficiency planning, and ESG-related challenges.
The Support Provided
Through EE4HORECA, Leone SRL participated in webinars and training sessions focused on energy efficiency, sustainable business models, energy transition opportunities, and ESG strategies. The project provided practical guidance and up-to-date information on the European sustainability framework, helping the company better understand future market expectations and regulatory developments.
The knowledge acquired through these activities supported the development of a long-term energy management roadmap, enabling the company to identify priorities, assess future investments, and integrate sustainability considerations into its business strategy.
The Actions Taken
One of the most significant steps in Leone SRL’s sustainability journey was the installation of a 70 kW photovoltaic plant in 2023, allowing the company to increase the use of renewable energy and reduce its dependence on conventional electricity sources. Building on this achievement, the company plans to install an additional 40 kW photovoltaic system by the end of 2026, bringing its total solar capacity to 110 kW. Inspired by the lessons learned through EE4HORECA, Leone SRL has also planned an energy audit to identify consumption hotspots and evaluate further efficiency opportunities. The company is now exploring available incentives and funding opportunities while increasing the use of digital tools to improve operational efficiency and support data-driven energy management.
In parallel, Leone SRL continues to strengthen its commitment to circular economy principles. The company already uses FSC-certified cardboard for secondary packaging and is currently testing more sustainable packaging solutions for primary packaging that comply with food safety requirements while reducing environmental impacts.
The Results
Participation in EE4HORECA has enabled Leone SRL to adopt a more strategic and forward-looking approach to sustainability. The company has improved its understanding of energy efficiency opportunities, strengthened internal awareness of ESG-related challenges, and established a clear roadmap for future energy management activities. The project has also reinforced collaboration throughout the value chain. Leone SRL works closely with three major suppliers—FrieslandCampina (Netherland), Valio (Finland), and Latteria Sociale Mantova (Italy) —each actively committed to greenhouse gas reduction initiatives and sustainability improvements. These partnerships contribute to a broader effort to reduce environmental impacts across the dairy supply chain.
Most importantly, EE4HORECA has helped the company shift from a reactive approach to energy investments toward a more structured strategy that combines renewable energy, efficiency measures, sustainable procurement, and long-term business resilience.
Looking Ahead
Looking to the future, Leone SRL intends to continue building on the knowledge and skills acquired through EE4HORECA. The company plans to complete its energy audit, implement priority efficiency measures, further expand renewable energy generation, and strengthen the integration of sustainability objectives into its business operations. By combining energy efficiency, renewable energy, sustainable packaging, and responsible supply-chain management, Leone SRL aims to enhance its competitiveness while contributing to a more sustainable and resilient dairy sector.
Quote
“The EE4HORECA project helped us look beyond individual energy investments and develop a broader strategic vision. The knowledge gained through the webinars is supporting our efforts to improve energy management, strengthen sustainability practices, and prepare our company for future challenges.”
