Unfortunately an unforeseen delay has occurred. I am informing you immediately.
'Imprevisto' = im-pre-VI-sto; stress on the third syllable.
Use as soon as you become aware of a delay that will affect a client, to communicate it proactively before the client discovers it themselves.
Bad news should be communicated early in Italian business culture. 'Imprevisto' (unforeseen) is important — it frames the delay as unexpected, not due to lack of effort. 'La informo subito' (I am informing you immediately) signals that you are not hiding the problem.
Ci troviamo in una situazione di ritardo — le spiego cosa è successo.
We find ourselves in a delay situation — let me explain what happened.
Honest and transparent; offers an explanation
La data di consegna originale non sarà rispettata. La nuova data prevista è...
The original delivery date will not be met. The new expected date is...
Clear and factual; gives the new date immediately
Stiamo facendo il possibile per recuperare i giorni persi.
We are doing everything possible to recover the lost days.
Shows active effort to minimise impact
Supply chain disruptions are a significant reality in Italy, especially in manufacturing. Italian clients have become more understanding of genuine supply issues since the pandemic, but they have zero tolerance for being left in the dark. Early, transparent communication is non-negotiable.