The air cargo industry has lost one of its highly respected pioneers in Glauco Martinelli.
He was the founder of Italian General Sales Agent ATC and passed away on 27 March 2025.
Glauco Martinelli began his career in 1960 with BOAC, followed by key roles in the cargo divisions of South African Airways and Alitalia. Even then, he stood out for his professionalism, passion, and sharp market instinct.
In 1979, he turned a bold idea into reality by founding ATC, likely the very first GSA in Italy. At a time when the concept of General Sales Agent was still unknown, he seized the opportunity to represent Air Canada, flying across the Atlantic to bring it to fruition. His determination laid the foundation for what would become a remarkable entrepreneurial and family story.
Under his leadership, ATC became a leading name in the Italian market, known for its excellence, commitment and the strength of its client relationships.
For over a decade, ATC was awarded Italy’s top GSA — a reflection of Glauco’s relentless drive and vision.
In 2012, guided by the same forward-thinking spirit that had defined his career, Glauco opened a new chapter for ATC by joining the international ECS Group, a move fully aligned with his vision of global growth.
The ECS Group is a world leader in General Sales and Service Agent (GSSA) business, in the airline industry. It represents hundreds of companies in 59 countries through its 181 offices and employs more than 1,400 employees around the world to offer high-quality service tailored to each of its partners.
After ATC joined the ECS Group, Glauco passed the leadership of the company to his son, Sauro Martinelli. Deeply committed to his father’s legacy, Sauro carried it forward with energy and conviction, bringing both continuity and fresh ambition. Under his guidance, ATC embraced new challenges and expanded its reach in an increasingly globalised industry.
Today, it stands as the largest GSA organisation in Italy, a testament to Martinelli’s vision, determination and lasting influence.
In other news, TerraVest acquired EnTrans.
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