A story spanning more than a century
1884
Angelo Rocca, the founder of the first Italian balloon manufacturer was born in 1884. At just 4 years old his passion was ignited when he emigrated to France with his family to help his brother-in- law, a successful balloon artisan.
As a young man he started off as a street vendor, but he was soon promoted to production assistant. By 15 he was managing the balloon workshop that supplied the most exclusive shops in Marseille.
1902 – 1952
At the tender age of 18, Angelo returned to his homeland, a small village called Casalvieri in Italy. Here he founded the first Italian company to manufacture latex balloons.
Angelo expanded the business by selling balloons across Italy, Europe, Africa and the Middle East. He could only grow so far though, at this time production was long and complex, all balloons were strictly “handmade” by expert artisans.
1953
Genesio, one of Angelo’s sons, founded his own company in 1953 called “Ditta Genesio Rocca”. He successfully transformed balloon production by growing it to an industrial scale.
In 1970 Genesio built the first factory covering a surface of 1000m2 and purchased the first automatic dipping line to manufacture latex balloons.
1990
In 1977, following the premature death of Genesio in a tragic car accident, Angelo, Genesio’s eldest son, took the reins of the company. In 1990, he officially founds GEMAR. Under Angelo’s solid leadership, the company conquered a prime position in the global marketplace. Now, he is running Gemar® with his son Genesio.
Oggi
At the turn of the millennium, Gemar® expanded its production to incorporate a printing facility and began to specialize in printing latex balloons. Tapping into a new and prosperous market, Gemar® developed a reputation as innovators in the industry, recognising up and coming trends and providing their customers with designs that let them fly above their competitors.
A philosophy built on passion
We make more than balloons, we make moments
Our mission
Our mission is to inspire and bring balloon joy to every occasion
Our philosophy
Lift the moment
Our roots
Nestled deep in the hills in the heart of Italy is Casalvieri, a small town that’s been the home of Gemar® and the Rocca family for more than 4 generations.
Tradition
Building on our heritage with passion and dedication, but always with an eye to the future.
Innovation
Never being content and always seeking out new ways to do things better and differently.
Creativity
Inspiring the people who use our products with new ways to add a touch of joy to every occasion. Sharing the love of balloon art worldwide.
People
Ensuring that those who work with us feel part of our family. We wish to enrich the lives of all those touched by Gemar®.
Responsibility
Taking care to make sure that our products are as sustainable and safe as possible throughout their lifecycle.
All our balloons are created in Italy with passion and pride. They are all designed to lift your memorable moments.
by Cloud Media Pro