The motto of Milan-based Tirelli & Partners, a leading European name in luxury real estate, is: “Every day we unlearn to better learn”. The maxim illustrates the company’s absolute commitment to innovation – but that ambition was tested when the Covid-19 pandemic hit Italy in early 2020. Company founder, Marco Tirelli remained sanguine. While viewings were closed down, Tirelli & Partners concentrated on staying connected to clients, using cutting-edge video and web technology to keep the wheels turning. Marco Tirelli, in a US radio interview in March 2020, said: “We are not in the real estate business, we’re in the human relationship business.” The company has a progressive approach to business – putting honesty, transparency and integrity at the core of its operations. Tirelli & Partners, in business for almost 35 years, was the first estate agency in Italy to obtain Benefit Corporation (B Corp) certification, joining a global list of more than 3,000 businesses, across 150 industries in 70 countries, who have chosen to commit to being a positive force for change. Tirelli achieved this accolade for its pledge to aspire to more than profit margins, following instead a “non-extractive” business model that safeguards the environment and provides shared benefits for all. Business priorities have been redefined – it’s not just about profit, but choosing to focus on the well-being of people, social cohesion and the regeneration of natural environments. For the second year in succession, the Cfi.co judges are pleased to declare Tirelli & Partners the 2021 winner of the Best Exclusive Residential Property Consultancy Italy award.