Benetton — Jonathan Mantle

Benetton is the story of an extraordinary family and the business they have built from humble origins to a skilfully orchestrated worldwide phenomenon. No other team name has such an ability to charm and shock, to subvert and yet preach conformism, to blend radicalism with capitalism, as Benetton. Behind the united colors and the seamless brand, there are also darker shades and looser threads. These include marginalized members of the family, aggrieved franchise holders, and banks. This is a success story from the frontline of the retail company, where soft fabrics mix with the smell of high-octane petrol and Grand Prix motor racing, and colored condoms combine with Catholicism and capitalism in their most red-blooded forms.