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Prysmian Group – 2015 Sustainability Report
Group ID Card
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A STORY THAT BEGAN TWO CENTURIES AGO
With almost 140 years of combined experience, the history of Prysmian and Draka is marked by numerous
successes and ever more ambitious and challenging milestones. Over time, these achievements have
enabled the Prysmian Group to consolidate its reputation as a pioneer in the sector, whose paramount
objective is to meet the requirements of its customers.
1900
At the start of the 20th century, Pirelli Cavi, part of the Italian Pirelli Group, achieved international recognition
thanks to several high profile projects, such as laying 5,150 km of telegraph submarine cable across the
Atlantic from Italy to America, linking North Africa with Brazil and installing a telephone line between Brazil
and Italy.
1910
Hollandsche Draad en Kabelfabrieken was founded in 1910 and later became Draka.
1900-1950
Both companies expanded by internal growth during the first half of the 20th century, broadening their
product ranges and opening factories in such strategic markets as Spain, the United Kingdom, North
America, Argentina and Brazil.
1990-2000
The 1990s saw both companies engaged on acquisitions followed by major restructuring work, with a view to
expanding their industrial and commercial activities.
2005
Pirelli Cavi was sold by Pirelli and Prysmian was founded.
2007
Prysmian was listed on the Milan Exchange's FTSE MIB.
2010
Prysmian became a public company. The assets and know-how accumulated in more than a century of
history allow the company to pursue growth in markets and businesses with a high degree of value added.
2011
The acquisition of Draka by Prysmian gave birth to a new world leader in the cables sector: the Prysmian
Group.
2015
Prysmian celebrates its first decade.