If, for example, you ask a trade organization representative to suggest a good producer of a certain type of olive oil, he may recommend a producer he knows rather than one who would be more suitable. Sicilian business reflects a strange mix of capitalism and socialism, and the best political appointees are not always the best trade representatives. Many are lifetime bureaucrats who've never had much practical business experience. That's not an asset when your success depends on their efforts. Keep cultural realities in mind.
Most Sicilian firms are family-owned.
In some cases, a wife, daughter or sister works in the firm. In general, however, you will rarely find women in responsible managerial positions. Having said that, it is worth mentioning that many businessmen in Italy seem to take foreign businesswomen more seriously than they do Italian ones. A few are remarkably open minded. Don't expect to accomplish much in July or August.