This time, fCN organized a fCN trade mission within Europe. It is good to see that with a group of 50 participants, many business connections have been made and that so much inspiration can be gained within the group. The visit to family business Mapei in Milan gave us a good impression of their impressive work, projects and possibilities. To Paul Spee, Mapei Netherlands, huge thanks for the reception with the traditional Baristas! It was very interesting!
We were warmly welcomed by Anneke and David de Waal, Consul General of the Netherlands, for a delicious lunch. Anyone can, if desired, always call on them for the right business connections. After the aperitif in the picturesque Palazza Gallerati-Scotti with Claudia Hamers, we had a delicious dinner at Armani in the presence of the Consul General and his wife. The day ended at the rooftop bar of the hotel, with a great view over the Milan skyline.
A long bus ride to the Ferrari factories awaited us, however this was the moment for making new connections among the participants! A lunch and a visit to the Ferrari factory in Maranello can now be checked off of the ‘to-do’ lists! Our sincere thanks again to Paul Spee for taking care of the entrance to the Ferrari museum and the factory. After a cocktail reception, organized by Pernod Ricard for the fCN trade mission at the rooftop bar of hotel ME Il Duca, we continued our evening with a dinner. Restaurant Finger’s coined in a 9-course dinner in their ‘Finger’s Garden’.
The last day we relaxed on the antique boats of Harold Lubberdink from Happy Holiday Homes. This day was completely dominated by the champagne Perrier-Jouët and we have all experienced that! During the cruise we enjoyed this delicious champagne which was offered to us by Pernod Ricard. At Villa Capuana we stepped ashore and in a picturesque garden with villa full of frescoes, the collaboration between fCN and Pernod Ricard was launched. We may call ourselves ambassadors for this special champagne brand. Also during lunch there was no lack of Perrier-Jouët which went well with the truffle dishes!
We have enjoyed this special group of entrepreneurs and fCN members!
Merlin Melles 
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