SMEG was founded by Vittorio Bertazzoni of Guastalla, the northern Italian town of Reggio Emilia, and is now one of the country's leading manufacturers of household appliances. The entrepreneurial history of the Bertazzoni family dates back to the 19th century. Beginning as blacksmiths, the Bertazzonis eventually started kitchen production. The first Bertazzoni kitchens took part in the World Expo fair held in Milan in 1906.

In 1948, the Smeg project was created to replace existing social structures during a period of economic growth and rapid urbanisation. Radical changes in lifestyles and patterns, the new definition of the nuclear family, the incredible increase in female professionals...all these factors inspired Smeg to offer products that will change technological needs and domestic life. Home appliances have changed our lifestyle habits by being seen as status symbols and making household chores easier and better. Housework is starting to get fun too!

In the second half of the 1950s, Smeg introduced one of the first gas ranges with oven safety valve, cooking program and automatic operation. In 1963, the washing and dishwashing group was introduced, and in 1970 the first production in the world was made: 60cm, 14 program dishwasher. The mid-1970s heralded the first built-in cookers and ovens, as well as partnerships with internationally renowned architects and designers. In the 1990s, Smeg added more products to its existing product line; sinks, hoods and colorful 50s refrigerators that will become iconic products worldwide.

Reinforcing its position in the home appliance sector, Smeg has reached branches in other different regions and established professional departments in the field of restaurant and health applications.

Today, it is run by the third generation of Smeg Bertazzoni entrepreneurs, but still keeps memories from the beginning in its Italian name: Smalterie Metallurgiche Emiliane Guastalla, or "Guastalla Emilia Enamelling".