The story of Addiopizzo goes hand in hand with the story of the Scimeca siblings, entrepreneurs from Caccamo, a small medieval village in the province of Palermo. Giorgio and Nicoletta are bound by a deep bond and two complementary personalities.
We often hear more about Giorgio as the one who reported the pizzo in 2004, but it was Nicoletta who had the intuition and determination to seek help from the young people of Addiopizzo—then a newly formed movement—after a year of severe social isolation and serious work difficulties.
Giorgio and Nicoletta’s pastry shop was the first place where Addiopizzo activists experimented with the anti-racket critical consumption strategy “I Pay Those Who Don’t Pay.” For many months, ordinary citizens engaged by Addiopizzo traveled from Palermo to Caccamo to meet and support the Scimeca siblings through their purchases.
A way to create a network of social and economic solidarity that proved crucial and supportive for Giorgio and Nicoletta, who had the courage to stand up against abuse and extortion.
The weight of this ordeal rested on the shoulders of the Scimeca siblings for a long time, but according to Nicoletta, it led to a strong family unity and reinforced their sense of duty, sacrifice, and legality.
Today, we see her in her uniform—apron and white hat—handling multiple trays where hundreds of cookies and pastries await packaging and shipping. Scimeca has indeed become a hallmark of quality in Sicilian pastry making. And Nicoletta is the guiding hand that manages the entire workshop, from products to staff.
Following the trails of aroma from the freshly baked delicacies, one discovers a team composed mostly of women, working with dedication, precision, and radiant smiles. The serene atmosphere is fostered by Nicoletta’s constant presence and the care she shows toward her colleagues.
The secret to Scimeca’s success lies both in being a close-knit family that values the best qualities of each member and in allowing themselves occasional moments of relaxation together—whether at a café or even at a spa! Moreover, on March 8th, International Women’s Day, Nicoletta has a tradition of preparing a mimosa cake for everyone to share—not so much to celebrate, but to reflect on the gender equality that has yet to be fully achieved.
To male entrepreneurs, in particular, Nicoletta addresses the following words: «“You must ensure dignified work for women by regularizing contracts and increasing salaries. Changing things may seem like a difficult task, but step by step, anything is possible.” ».
The company could run on its own, given the high level of professionalism, but without Nicoletta, it’s just not the same—just ask the customers!
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