Aristide Merloni (24 October 1897, Fabriano – 19 December 1970, Fabriano), was an Italian businessman, founder of the Merloni industries.
He started his entrepreneurial adventure with the production of scales.
In the following decades he developed a large range of products, from gas cylinders to water heaters, from bathtubs to household appliances and kitchen furniture.
And from his name, Aristide, the company drew inspiration to create its historical, most famous trademark, Ariston.
Upon his death the various activities were divided into three companies, one for each one of his sons.
Two of these companies are still in business: Ariston Thermo Group and Indesit Company.