New Generation of Monaco Families

Meet Alberto Bertelli, an Italian who spent part of his childhood in Monaco and later became deeply involved in the family business based in the Principality, now led by both father and son.

Born in Montecatini Terme, Italy, Alberto Bertelli, son of a versatile entrepreneur, grew up immersed in the family’s trading business. At the age of eight, Alberto moved with his family to Monaco, where his father, Antonio, established AGAP, an international trading company specializing in high-quality frozen fish.

“My earliest memory of Monaco is from when I was a child visiting my father here. 

I remember the road from my old house to his office. It was one of the first times I could walk around the city alone, which was a big deal because in Italy, children are usually not allowed to go out by themselves. 

I also remember that my father showed me the way from one place to another, and I was able to walk around on my own in the mornings. That’s probably my first vivid memory of Monaco.”

Spending summer holidays in Monaco, Alberto and his sister embraced the safety and care the Principality offered to children.

“Montecatini Terme, my hometown, also has a small community, which is similar to Monaco in some ways. But the safety in Monaco is truly unparalleled. 

What I also loved about growing up here was the international atmosphere. I could hear so many different languages—Italian, French, and many others.”

Despite its small size as a city-state, Monaco offers residents a rich cultural and sporting life. The high quality of life here is not just about safety, but also about the wide variety of activities the Principality has to offer.

Monaco is renowned for its prestigious sporting events, including the Rolex Tennis Masters, the Historic Grand Prix, Formula E, the Formula 1 Grand Prix, Longines Horse Jumping, and many others. For Alberto, however, it’s football that holds a special place in his heart.

“I started playing football as a child, which is quite common in Italy, since football is one of the country’s most popular sports. 

I’m a huge fan of Inter Milan, but both my father and I are also passionate supporters of AS Monaco. We have dedicated seats at the stadium, so we enjoy attending local games regularly.”

Your father, Antonio, is also a former Italian tennis champion.

“Yes, I inherited his passion for tennis. We play padel and tennis together every week. Another wonderful aspect of life in Monaco is that we get the chance to see some of the best tennis players in the world practice and compete at the Monte-Carlo Country Club. 

It’s rare to get so close to such legendary athletes. I’ve been to many other countries, but even a match at Wimbledon can’t compare to the warm, almost family-like atmosphere here in Monaco.”

After finishing his university studies, Alberto decided to follow in his father’s footsteps and join the family business.

“I’ve always had a strong interest in trading, so joining AGAP felt like a natural step. My goal was also to live in Monaco. 

The Principality offers a unique opportunity to thrive in an international environment, surrounded by multicultural businesses and successful global entrepreneurs. I’ve been coming here for more than 25 years now, so I know the city well.”

Do you have a favorite place in Monaco?

“I love Monaco in its entirety. When I was a child, we spent a lot of time in Fontvieille, and my family particularly enjoys La Salière. Today, I spend a lot of time around Larvotto and its restaurants. I love walking through Larvotto at night. 

And of course, the Casino Square—every time I visit, I’m still in awe. It’s so perfect, clean, and fresh, yet it has a rich historical heritage that still fascinates people today.”

At AGAP, Antonio remains the face of the company, handling commercial relationships, while Alberto oversees the day-to-day operations.

“My father is amazing at meeting people and bringing them in as clients. Once they’re on board, I take charge of making sure everything runs smoothly and meets the highest standards. 

We complement each other perfectly. As the younger generation, I bring a dynamic approach to the business that our clients appreciate.”

Is it challenging working within a family business?

“When you work with relatives, it can be tough to separate business from family life. At first, I struggled with the fact that my father is my boss at work, but at home, he’s just my loving dad. Over time, though, it gets easier. 

Working with someone who knows you so well, and vice versa, helps you understand each other’s expectations. We’ve learned and grown together on this journey.”

Your mother and grandparents still live in Italy. Do you ever consider moving back?

“I try to visit my family in Italy about twice a month, as it’s only a three-hour drive away. It’s always nice to go back and catch up with old friends. But Monaco is my home now. My girlfriend and I both love living here, and we’re planning to build our future together in the Principality.”

Monaco is often associated with opulence and luxury, but the frozen fish trading business might not immediately fit that image.

“There are plenty of trading companies here in Monaco, even beyond the luxury sector. In fact, one of our main competitors is located just behind us. 

Monaco offers many opportunities, and there’s a diverse range of businesses operating here. The challenges we face are not unlike those in Italy or France, but we also benefit from the unique advantages Monaco provides.”

You mentioned bringing new energy to the business. How so?

“My father is a very traditional person. He values face-to-face meetings and often visits clients in person. 

My generation, however, is more dynamic, and we’re focused on efficiency. For example, I prefer Zoom calls because they allow us to get things done quickly without geographical limitations.”

Although Alberto prefers digital communication, he still travels extensively to trade shows around the world. These trips are often a father-son affair, as they meet with both new and longstanding clients and reconnect with suppliers.

“My dream is to continue the business for the long term and preserve the family legacy. Right now, I work hand-in-hand with my father, but as he’s 63 years old, I know that one day I’ll have to take over.”

As an Italian, do you have any favorite restaurants in Monaco?

“My favorite Italian restaurant is Zeffirino. They serve one of the best Italian pesto dishes. I also like Cipriani, which is a classic in Monaco.”

Do you see yourself staying in Monaco long term?

“Monaco is a place I truly love and admire, but more importantly, I’m happy here.”