Francesco Merloni, Italian Businessman and Former President of Confindustria, Dies at 93

Rome, Italy - Francesco Merloni, a prominent Italian businessman and former president of Confindustria, Italy's main business lobby, has died at the age of 93.

Merloni was born in Fabriano, Italy, in 1929. He joined the family business, Indesit Company, in 1954 and became its president in 1975. Under his leadership, Indesit grew into one of the world's largest manufacturers of home appliances.

Merloni was also active in public life. He served as president of Confindustria from 1996 to 2000, and was a member of the Italian Senate from 2001 to 2006.

He was known for his strong support of free market economics and his opposition to government intervention in the economy.

In 2005, Merloni was awarded the Leonardo da Vinci Medal, one of Italy's highest honors, for his contributions to Italian industry.

Merloni is survived by his wife, Antonella, and four children.