The company's original fragrance, Colonia, was created in 1916 in a small perfume factory in the center of Parma's historic old town, after which the company is named.
At the time, the majority of commercial perfumes were much stronger and heavier in composition; so the unusually light and refreshing fragrance from Parma found wide success in Europe.
In the 1930s the increasing popularity of the cologne led to an increase in production and the development of its distribution. The thirties and fifties are described as a 'golden age' for Acqua di Parma Colonia, which became very successful among members of high society, with celebrity clientele.
Over the years, the brand expanded its product range, introducing a home collection that includes bathrobes and towels, and leather goods.
The company was acquired by multi-national LVMH in 2001,[2] and is now headquartered in Milan.
In May 2008 the company entered the luxury spa market with the Blu Mediterraneo Spa in Porto Cervo (Sardinia). In 2013 the company opened its second spa at the Gritti Palace in Venice.
In 2013, the company launched La Nobiltà del Fare ("The Nobility of Work"), a book focusing on stories of Italian arts and crafts excellence, featuring photography by Giovanni Gastel.
Etihad airways has a deal to supply exclusive leather packs containing samples of the signature fragrance and hand cream in their business, first class and ultimate Residence apartment.
Company logo
The company's logo is the coat of arms of Marie Louise, Duchess of Parma, who ruled from 1816 to 1847.[3] This is in homage to her rule and to the help she provided to develop the perfume and glass industry of Parma.[4][5]
Gli Esclusivi (luxury home and travel accessories)
Packaging
The company has continued the cylindrical bottles, rounded boxes and bright yellow packaging of the original product. It included a blue variant which was meant to "evoke the energy, the sun and the colours of the Italian Mediterranean."[7]
