1966
La Nordica was founded by Antonio Vanoni and his wife, Mrs. Ursula.
The company began producing and packaging household cleaning products under the La Nordica brand: bleach, hydrochloric acid, and floor cleaners.
1972
La Nordica moved to its current headquarters in Arcisate, which would later undergo a series of progressive developments.
1973
Antonio Vanoni, a forward-thinking entrepreneur, also began turning his attention to cosmetics and personal care products.
1978
In the late 1970s, La Nordica became a pioneer of an original idea: producing soaps with distinctive, instantly recognizable shapes. The first soap bars sold in wicker baskets and the first gift items were introduced. In the following years, other personal care products were developed, such as bath foam and body oil.
1980
Keeping pace with the times, La Nordica followed the evolution of the market and distribution channels, and continued to grow steadily. In 1980, it began taking part in international trade fairs, marking its first appearance at Cosmoprof in Bologna and at the Frankfurt Trade Fair.
1980
In the same year, with the three daughters—Emanuela, Paola, and Patrizia—joining the company, the move into cosmetics became the most natural direction.
1986
1987
A new brand was needed, one that could fully embody La Nordica’s soul in cosmetics and personal care. That is how White Castle was born: English in style, but entirely Made in Italy in quality and production. The company chose to distribute this commercial brand exclusively through large-scale retail channels.
1996
1998
Research and development of new product ideas characterized the end of the 1990s: potpourri flowers and colored stones for home fragrance, and rice starch and fragrance-free soap in cosmetics.
2007
In 2007, Antonio Vanoni passed away. In his daughters’ words: “Everyone cared deeply for him. He was a great leader, with incredible humanity. He was strict, but extremely appreciative.” Mrs. Ursula continued to maintain her role and presence within the company.
2010
These were years marked by a strong focus on products and industrial initiatives guided by sustainability and green ethics.
La Nordica sourced fair-trade energy and raw materials. Its surfactants were of plant origin, no raw materials were animal-derived, and no products were tested on animals. The company also expanded its support for social organizations.
2021
Starting in 2021, innovation continued within the company with new cabling infrastructure and the installation of a photovoltaic system. The company also moved toward Lean Management: a workflow approach that fosters a culture of continuous improvement for employees, all actively involved in the process of innovation and optimization.
2022
The company focused on solid cleansers: all water was removed, leaving only the other ingredients, with reduced weight and volume, optimized transport, paper packaging, and lower pollution. All raw materials are biodegradable.
2024
2024 marks the entry of the third generation into the company, with Alessandra joining the business: a family-driven approach that highlights and values female leadership.
2025
Production begins on a new “5.0” manufacturing plant for soap bars and solid cleansers, entirely designed with a view to technological innovation and to looking ahead to the next 60 years.
2026
La Nordica celebrates its 60th anniversary. The anniversary claim is “Solid Roots”: a past rich in inspiration, projected toward a future of success.
