My Career Choice – Jacqueline Quattrone, CEO Supermarket Italy

Jacqueline Quattrone is CEO of Supermarket Italy, since 2009 one of the leading online destinations for authentic gourmet imported products from Italy. The company has expanded its offerings to include an even wider variety of international foods. The website now features 6,000 products from 44 countries, including regions in Europe, North America, Africa, the Middle East, the Caribbean, South America, and Australia.

Supermarket Italy is deeply rooted in a family tradition of Italian and international cuisine, catering to chefs, restaurants, foodies, and culturally curious consumers and offering a wholesale division alongside its direct-to-consumer platform.

Jacqueline manages all aspects of Supermarket Italy, including operations, sourcing products, overseeing the website, blogs, social media, and marketing. She also brings experience as a real estate investor. As a mother and active community member, she is particularly passionate about promoting leadership for women and minorities.

Can you point to one event that triggered your interest in your career?

I can still picture myself at eight years old, baking brownies in the kitchen and going door to door selling them to my neighbors. That spark of entrepreneurship was in me from the start. I’ve always been drawn to the idea of creating something meaningful—whether it’s a product or a service—and sharing it with others. There’s something deeply rewarding about bringing value to people’s lives. What excites me most is the constant growth—every day brings a new challenge, a new lesson, and a new opportunity. Those early experiences taught me the joy of connecting with others, the importance of hard work, and the excitement of building something from the ground up—lessons that continue to shape the way I lead and grow my business today.

What about this career choice did you find most appealing? 

What attracted me most to this career choice was the opportunity to blend the diverse culinary cultures our world has to offer. I have always been passionate about good food, and at Supermarketitaly, we import the finest gourmet products from around the globe to provide our customers with unique and memorable experiences. I believe one of the most meaningful things we can do in a lifetime is make a positive impact in the lives of others. Growing up in the ’90s, I’ve witnessed how technology has brought the world closer together. With the rise of online shopping, the way we connect with products—and each other—has completely transformed. Yet, there’s something truly special about delivering a taste of global gourmet directly to someone’s doorstep. It’s more than just convenience—it’s the power to rekindle memories, to relive the flavors of a cherished trip, or to explore a new culture, all without leaving your kitchen. That experience is not only unique, it’s deeply personal.

What steps did you take to begin your education or training?

The first steps I took were lessons from my parents, who taught me to never give up and to value hard work. Building on those values, I pursued a degree in economics, which has given me a deeper understanding of the market and where it is headed, strengthening my business vision and strategy.

Along the way, were people encouraging or discouraging?

I never doubted my decision. I have always been clear about what I wanted to achieve. Although, like any journey, there have been ups and downs, my vision and purpose have remained steady, allowing me to stay focused and determined to move forward. I believe that with unwavering determination, anything is possible. The mind holds extraordinary power—when you let go of fear and believe in yourself, you can achieve the unimaginable.

When did your career reach a tipping point?

The pandemic was a defining moment for our business. Almost overnight, the way people shopped around the world changed—and we felt the impact deeply. As demand surged, we worked tirelessly to keep up, expanding Supermarket Italy production and ensuring orders reached homes quickly. But it wasn’t just about numbers—it was about staying connected to people when they needed comfort, familiarity, and something to look forward to. We made big changes behind the scenes, upgrading our warehouse systems to serve our customers better. Through it all, our mission stayed the same: to deliver not just products, but moments of joy in uncertain times.

Can you describe a challenge you had to overcome?

The arrival of my son changed my life in the most profound way. Suddenly, I was not only responsible for growing a business, but also for nurturing a new life. Balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship wasn’t easy—it challenged me in ways I never expected. But through organization, patience, and unwavering commitment, I found a rhythm. That journey shaped me, strengthened me, and brought me to where I am today. To every mom out there juggling dreams and diapers: you are capable of extraordinary things. Keep going. You’re building more than a business or a family—you’re building a legacy.

What single skill has proven to be most useful?

My creativity and problem-solving skills have proven to be the most valuable assets in my journey. They have enabled me to find innovative and effective solutions that have driven the growth of the business.

What accomplishment are you most proud of?

Empowering women has always been my biggest accomplishment, and priority in our business. Today, 90 percent of our team is made up of strong, talented women—and I couldn’t be prouder. Many of them are mothers, multitaskers, and natural leaders who show up every day with passion and purpose. Watching them grow, lead, and support one another has been one of the most rewarding parts of this journey.

Building a business around female leadership hasn’t just made us stronger—it’s shaped our culture. We work smarter, we care deeply, and we bring that same energy into every order we pack and every customer we serve. For me, it’s a reflection of what I value most: community, strength, and lifting each other up.

Any advice for others entering your profession?

My advice for those starting out in this profession is to be consistent and maintain a mindset of continuous learning. It’s essential to develop new skills that enhance your performance, stay aware of market trends and changes, and, importantly, listen to and value your team, as they are a key part of your success.

For more information about Supermarket Italy, go to the website.

Photo credit – Supermarket Italy.