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The Santarossa family: Three generations, exceptional expertise
By Marie-Hélène Jean, Promotional Content Writer
February 12, 2025 at 1:00 AM
In the center, Kelly Santarossa is now the sole owner of the company. (Photo: JF Perreault)
Sponsored Content | Santarossa Ceramics
The story behind Santarossa Ceramics is a beautiful family adventure, marked by a commitment to quality workmanship and the passing down of expertise through three generations. In its 40 years of existence, this small family business, specializing in the installation of floor coverings, particularly ceramic tiles, has built a solid reputation thanks to its attention to detail and impeccable service.
The beginnings: a brothers' affair
The company's activities began in the early 1970s when Giobatta Santarossa, originally from Italy, worked in concrete installation and finishing. In 1977, he partnered with his brother Pier-Angelo, and the company's services expanded.
For 27 years, the two men worked side by side. Their rigor and professionalism led them to put their skills to use on many large-scale projects in the industrial sector, including the expansion of the Sacré-Cœur school and the Granby arena, as well as to increase collaborations with architects and experts in the region.
The Giobatta brothers and Pier-Angelo formed a partnership in 1977. (JF Perreault)
“As a couple, we each have to put in our own effort to move forward. I am proud and happy with what we have built together. We worked hard and the company still exists today. We have earned our living solely from the company. It is a great satisfaction,” says Pier-Angelo Santarossa.
A natural transition towards family succession
Over time, the company has become more specialized in ceramics, gradually abandoning concrete to meet the growing demand for more refined floor coverings.
When Giobatta reached retirement age, the transition within the Santarossa family was seamless. In 1993, the second generation joined the company, with his children, Eddy and Rosy Santarossa, taking over alongside their uncle Pier-Angelo.
"It has always been the goal to encourage succession with the children and nephews, to train them and to make them want to continue," emphasizes Pier-Angelo.
At just 18 years old, young Rosy is overseeing the launch of the company's new branch, developing a retail space dedicated to selling ceramics. Eddy, meanwhile, is handling the installation.
Rosy and Eddy Santarossa, Giobatta's children, joined the company in the 90s.
“It was a good challenge!” she recalls. “Everything had to be done from scratch. Selling ceramics was more about decoration and involved all the consulting aspects, which suited me much better. I worked in the company for 40 years, and I learned a lot. It’s a great source of pride to see that the family business continues and to realize that we have been able to adapt to market demands and the changing economic context,” says Rosy Santarossa.
In 2003, Pier-Angelo in turn passed on his shares to his nephews, Eddy and Rosy, who continued the work of the first generation, remaining true to their commitment to quality and customer service. This philosophy has borne fruit, as the third generation is now in charge.
The company has evolved over the years, notably with the opening of the store dedicated to selling ceramics. (JF Perreault)
Third generation
Today, Kelly Santarossa, Eddy's daughter, carries on the family legacy. After an initial experience with the company between 2008 and 2012, she returned in 2021 to take over the reins. Passionate about design and interior design, she was committed to ensuring the company's continuity.
“No matter the request, we are able to do it. Whether it’s high-end products, marble finishes or ceramic carpets with different layouts and textures, we master all the techniques, both indoors and outdoors. Of course, everything depends on the residence or the location, but if the conditions allow, we carry out each project with precision and expertise,” explains Kelly.
Kelly Santarossa was determined to continue the work begun by her family. (JF Perreault)
The story of Santarossa Ceramics continues to be written and to evolve, while remaining true to its essence: family know-how, a commitment to a job well done and a constant desire to surpass itself in the realization of projects of small and large scale.
“The best moment is when a client comes back after the installation and tells me how satisfied they are, that not only has their need been met, but that we've exceeded their expectations. Sometimes, a client arrives with a very specific idea, and our role is also to open up new perspectives for them. It's not just about giving them what they ask for, but helping them make the best choices for a harmonious and timeless result,” concludes Kelly Santarossa.
Source: La Voix de l'est