History
Three Generations, One Direction.
Since 1947, each generation of the Prando family has built on the legacy of the one before it, transforming it along the way. From repairing bicycles and motorcycles to developing special-purpose machines, our story is one of continuous evolution, mechanical expertise and the constant search for new solutions to meet the needs of those working in the field.
With every generation, talent and passion have driven our ability to look beyond the present and imagine new possibilities. From a workshop dedicated to repairs, to entering the earthmoving machinery sector, and later to designing special-purpose machines and developing new research projects, each generation has evolved without losing its identity. Today, we continue on this path with the same spirit: looking to the future, anticipating the needs of those working in the field and designing the solutions of tomorrow.
1947
In 1947, Luigi Prando opens a small workshop in Aosta dedicated to repairing bicycles and motorcycles. These are the post-war reconstruction years and, thanks to his talent, passion and extensive mechanical expertise, the workshop becomes a trusted point of reference in the local area. Over the years, it also becomes an officially authorised workshop for Moto Guzzi, Moto Taurus and Ganna, reflecting the trust and expertise built over time.
1968
Officina Prando passes to Luigi’s son Antonio, who expands the business by introducing new services for the repair of cars and agricultural vehicles. The workshop grows alongside the needs of the local area, strengthening the mechanical expertise that will become the foundation for the company’s future development.
1975
Officina Prando evolves into Operval, marking the beginning of a new phase of growth. The company specialises in earthmoving machinery, combining its mechanical expertise with an increasingly solid organisational structure. Luciana Cortinovis and Franco Vigna also play a key role in this journey, contributing to the company’s managerial and organisational development.
2006
With the arrival of the third generation, Andrea and Lorenzo Prando bring new expertise to the company and a vision focused on developing Operval’s own machines. Their passion for electronics leads them to take on a new challenge: designing and building Operval’s first radio-controlled machines.
2013-2020
Following the launch of the PL10, the world’s first radio-controlled dumper, the company accelerates its development by expanding its range of machines and patents. New projects take shape, including the ST25 Tunnel Dumper, designed to operate in tunnels, utility tunnels and mines, and the KE60® hydraulic grapple, which is also patented. During the same period, Operval strengthens its international presence by returning to Bauma Munich, the world’s leading trade fair for construction and earthmoving machinery.
2021 - 2025
Operval’s range of radio-controlled dumpers expands with the P14, P08 and P24, three machines designed to meet different operational needs and showcased at major international trade fairs, including Bauma Munich. At the same time, the company invests in developing its international sales network and, in 2025, embarks on a new path by taking part in the Aosta Valley Region’s 2025 Research Programme with a project dedicated to precision viticulture, developed together with the Institut Agricole Régional and other partners. This marks the starting point for the future Research division, dedicated to developing new solutions through collaborative research.