The story begins in 1875, when Jean and Georges Giovanna founded their company in Montreux, Switzerland.
In 1858, Jean, aged 14, began an apprenticeship in goldsmithing in Paris. The journey begins with the crossing of the Simplon Pass, on foot and by stagecoach. On his way Jean faced snow storms and violent gusts of wind. When he arrived in Sierre, he continued his journey towards Paris.
In 1863, Georges, the younger, chose to move to the Pays de Gex. There he initiates himself to the secrets of the hardware and lamp industry.
In 1875, after the war, the two brothers met in Montreux. Then, they decided to found the Giovanna Frères company, a business active in hardware and boiler making.
1910
Humbert, son of Georges, takes over the tin smithing part and specializes in sanitary installations.
1928
With the rise of tourism and the construction of numerous hotels, demand increased. The workshops moved to larger premises.
1932
For the first time the company is using stainless steel, a material that is still little known and completely revolutionary.
1946
Giovanna becomes a public limited company and Henri, Georges’ grandson, creates the Ginox department: stainless steel makes its grand entrance into building technology.
1948
With the rise of tourism and the construction of many hotels, demand increased. The workshops moved to larger premises.
1961
The company builds a new hall and invests in more modern machinery and tools.
1975
The company celebrates its 100th anniversary.
1986
A new extension of the factory will allow the regrouping in Clarens of all the company’s departments.
1994
The company loses Henri Giovanna, who was the driving force and cement behind Ginox for over 50 years. Olivier Giovanna, his son, takes over the reins of the company.
1997
Patent granted for the ball filter of the ventilation hood.
2000
Ginox manufactures industrial parts in space.
2003
Giovanna Holding SA is founded as the umbrella company for the group’s operational units. Jérôme Hofer, representing the 5th generation, succeeds Olivier Giovanna at the head of the company.
2007
Establishment of Ginox UAE LLC in Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates, and opening of a production plant for the Middle East countries.
2011
Inauguration in Chailly-sur-Montreux of the group’s new production site, an ultra-modern factory with a strong focus on design.
2015
Opening of a showroom in Bangkok. The group celebrates its 140th anniversary that same year.
2019
Ginox Swiss Kitchen inaugurates its new facility in the United Arab Emirates and wins the Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone Excellence Award (2018) for Best New Technology.