Rimini is mourning the loss of Gianni Indino, who passed away at the age of 70 following complications from an aneurysm. The poignant announcement came from Rimini's mayor, Jamil Sadegholvaad, who recognized Indino as not just a businessman, but as a beloved community figure who greatly influenced the culture and economy of the region.
Indino, who served as the president of Confcommercio Rimini and the Silb Emilia-Romagna, had been hospitalized since January 31 after suffering the aneurysm shortly after returning from a business trip to Dubai. His health condition had been reported as serious, leading to widespread concern among residents and industry peers alike.
Born in Oria, near Brindisi, Indino moved to Turin with his family when he was young, and then took his first steps toward a career in Rimini’s vibrant nightlife at just 22 years old. The mayor recounted the beginning of Indino’s story: seeking work and opportunities, he arrived at the Pensione Portofino, where he would start his career with little more than hope and ambition.
“He knocked on several doors until he found his first break at Radio Rimini,” Sadegholvaad recalled. “With the first money he earned, he repaid the owners of the Pensione Portofino who had supported him during harder times.” It was this tenacity and spirit of reinvestment back to his community which would define Indino's life.
Throughout his career, Indino became well-known as a DJ, working at various clubs and radio stations, and even as a talent scout. His passion for the entertainment industry was evident, as he dedicated his life to shaping it through hospitality, promotion, and community engagement. According to Indino, “the growth of our territory passes from the work of these great people, who have made their human and professional qualities collective goods,” emphasizing his belief in the communal symbiosis of industry growth.
Indino's legacy is also marked by the impact of tourism on Rimini, which thrived during the booming years of the late 20th century. He recalled how people’s trust and shared experiences fueled economic and social development, hallmark traits of the renowned 'Romagna hospitality' he so cherished.
The mayor, deeply affected by Indino’s passing, expressed, “It is with heavy heart we say goodbye to someone who has woven himself so deeply with Rimini’s identity. Gianni’s love affair with our city spanned nearly 50 years, but his legacy and spirit will last much longer.” Sadegholvaad reflected on how Indino’s generosity was reciprocated by the community he adored, crafting bonds across generations.
Other prominent figures also paid tribute to Indino's character and contributions. Michele de Pascale, the president of the region, and Roberta Frisoni, the regional tourism assessor, praised his relentless work ethic and positive spirit. “He fought until the end, true to his character,” they said. “His initiative and drive will be remembered as testaments to his value.”
The sorrow of his passing extends beyond mere professional accolades; his family is feeling the loss, with tributes pouring in from friends and colleagues expressing their condolences. Indino is remembered not just as a leader but as someone who touched many lives personally. The mayor’s poignant words aimed at Indino encapsulated the sentiment felt by many: “You have repaid Rimini with interest for the goodwill you received almost 50 years ago.”
Indino's passing marks the end of an era for Rimini's tourism and nightlife sectors, but his influence will continue to inspire future generations of entrepreneurs and community leaders.