About us

About us

Proven Experience

3io was founded in Milan in 2011 as a spin-off of Sidecar, one of Italy’s leading distribution agencies between the 1980s and 2010. Sidecar was responsible for the distribution of brands such as Refrigiwear, Camper, Miss Sixty, s.Oliver, Nordkapp and Paul Smith, as well as event production, temporary stores and retail consulting.

After several years of experience as a Retailer, Agent and Manager, Andrea Maria Meschia founded 3io together with Elvira Casapollo and Karen Nicole Stange.

The 3 Pillars of 3io

Our working model is built around three dimensions that operate in an integrated way, providing clients with comprehensive support: from strategic analysis of the challenge to hands-on execution in the field. From defining the model to its operational implementation, we support companies at every step of the journey, offering end-to-end services to our clients—because strategy alone is not enough.

And execution without strategy is simply a risk.

 

1_ADVISORY

High-level consulting with a smart approach. Decision-making support for entrepreneurs and companies. Strategic business analysis, assessment of business models and potential, with a tailored, non-standardized approach.

2_STRATEGY & EXECUTION

From strategic planning to operational execution. Retail go-to-market, franchising & scale-up, international expansion, real estate and location strategy, with execution through qualified partnerships.

3_NETWORK & PARTNERSHIP

Access to a high-value ecosystem. A network of professionals across retail, real estate, franchising, legal, and finance. Strategic partnerships in Italy and across Europe, providing a tailored, non-standardized approach.

EXPERTISE THAT MAKES THE DIFFERENCE

Real-World Experience

Over 30 years of combined experience in retail and distribution. We’ve been on the other side of the table, as sales professionals, retailers, and managers.
We’ve had plenty of hands-on experience.

Smart, Tailor-Made Approach

Every project is assessed and addressed according to its specific characteristics. Execution speed and financial sustainability are an integral part of our approach. No one-size-fits-all model.

Qualified Network

A real ecosystem of professionals and partners across Italy and Europe: consultants, real estate, legal & finance experts, agents, and distributors. No theory: real connections.

International Outlook

Access to multiple international markets through FPI – Franchise Pool International: 20 partners, 48 countries. Direct presence in Italy and Europe, with strategic partnerships in the Middle East and Southeast Asia.

AN ECOSYSTEM OF QUALIFIED PARTNERS

3io’s strength goes beyond our in-house expertise. Over the years, we have built an ecosystem of trusted, qualified relationships that enables us to bring our clients specialized expertise across every area of their projects.

 

Europe’s leading network of 20 local professionals specializing in international franchising: active across 48 countries in Europe, North America, the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and Africa.
Since 2015, we have been the Italian partner.

Federation of agents and distributors in the apparel, footwear, leather goods, accessories, and sporting goods sectors.

The association of network-based retail companies, bringing together leading retail operators to protect their interests and support their growth.

SPECIALIZED PARTNERS

Real estate consultants, legal & finance experts, marketing & communication agencies, and advisors specializing in emerging markets (Peaks Consulting, Top Image).

SCP FOOD CONSULTANT

Management consultants specializing in retail and food retail: they develop the best concept and create the right format, working with clients to design action plans for optimal success.

Together with SCP, we are developing the Food Brand Basket project: an ecosystem for food franchising development and international retail expansion.

The portfolio includes Italian brands with a clear market positioning and a well-defined business model: