A E P O R U E Nbusiness in France www.european-business.com

CONTENTS ELECTRONICS Bigben Connected SA Accessorizing smartphones SERVICES AdopteUnMec Dating portal where women reign MEDIA & ADVERTISING VitrineMedia Enterprise Genuinely remarkable TOURISM & CATERING Lenôtre SA The best reception HOME & GARDEN Architecture du Bois – Terrasses Grad Outdoor concept made of wood 4 6 8 10 13 3 www.european-business.com CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY & BUILDING SUPPLIES PROMO GERIM SA Building for the future FINANCE & INSURANCE Wyde Insurance for all eventualities TRADE Financière Trésor du Patrimoine SAS Mail order the French way FOOD & BEVERAGES Société d’Exploitation des Eaux du Montcalm Pure water from a magical region Bibars SAS Halal and organic 14 16 18 20 22 IMPRINT Publisher: International Business Verlag GmbH Address: Landersumer Weg 40 · 48431 Rheine · Germany Phone: +49 5971 92161-0 · Fax: +49 5971 92161-854 info@european-business.com · www.european-business.com Editor-in-chief: M. J. Brinkmann

With lifetime guarantee: the Bigben Force Case is the ultimate smartphone case The latest iteration of the official World Rally Championships game developed for Playstation 4 The original Bigben Force Glass screen protector is available for many smartphone models marketing campaigns, Bigben operators. “We are also selling ready turned their stores into mod- works together with its sales part- through internet platforms like Am- ern, smart places which are at- ners. “Our distribution partners azon and through concept stores tracting new customers,” explains are exclusively mentioned in the to develop new customer groups,” Mr. Bassot. “This development is campaigns, which draws people says Mr. Bassot. also leading to higher demand for into the store,” states Mr. Bassot. accessories such as phone cases “This creates a genuine pull effect, In addition to new product devel- and power banks. At the same is where our products come into which is very important to us.” Two opment, Bigben is focusing on the time, the smartphone is becoming play as they offer an ideal solu- of the best-selling Bigben products constant optimization of its internal more and more an integral part tion for protecting the phone and are the phone case Force Case processes and taking advantage of our life. Instead of being pur- preserving its value. With the con- and the screen protector Force of digitalization in logistics. “For chased, however, smartphones are stantly growing significance of the Glass, both of which come with a example, we have implemented increasingly being used on a leas- smartphone for our daily lives, our lifetime guarantee. Another highly an automated subsequent deliv- ing or rental basis. This requires accessory products are increasing successful product has been ery system for our customers,” the phone to be kept in perfect in value and status, too.” developed for the telecommuni- Mr. Bassot points out. “As soon condition until it is returned. This cations group Orange: an aerial as an article is sold, a new one drone which is being distributed in is automatically delivered. Digital ten countries. Besides marketing invoicing is also becoming its own branded articles, Bigben more and more popular. supplies private-label products to Last year, we moved over internationally recognized brands, 20 million products. To ac- such as major fashion labels. “In complish this as efficiently the past, we distributed third-party as possible, we are continu- brands under license,” Mr. Bassot ously working on new digital says, explaining the change in the business processes.” Bigben is business model of Bigben. “Today, also benefiting from the grow- we are designing and manufactur- ing trend towards making ing for these brands.” Important every shopping trip an customers of Bigben are Orange, exciting experience. SFR and other major telephone “Many retailers have al- 5 www.european-business.com With its strong focus on product in- novation and development, Bigben is in a perfect position to benefit from these market trends. “We will continue to create new value-add- ing products and attractive brands and bring them onto the market, in close cooperation with our retail partners, verified by high-level market analyses and accompanied by targeted marketing campaigns,” says Mr. Bassot. “And we shall also be developing further distri- bution channels such as the new concept stores.” ❙ N A E P O R U E business Speaker and lamp in one: the Bigben Lumin’us unicorn wireless speaker with LED lighting

AdopteUnMec 10 Place Vendôme 75001 Paris France  +33 1 53409910  support@ adopteunmec.com  www.adopteunmec.com In the past, people were ashamed to admit that they had found their partner via the internet. Today it is very different. For the younger generation, it is completely normal to meet new friends and partners through the internet – it is a part of Attention-grabbing: one of AdopteUnMec’s most successful ad campaigns involved men displayed like dolls in boxes everyday life. These days, there are can organize their day in a way many introduction portals; some of which works for them. “The only them are quite general, others tar- important thing is that the work get people with specific interests. gets done,” adds Ms. Sananikone. Every day we see the evidence of “This approach is quite typical in our success. We receive invitations Scandinavia, but in France it is to weddings, or thank you notes very unusual.” Even the compa- from people who have found their ny’s advertising is light-hearted. In partner through our website.” one of its early promotional cam- paigns, aimed at raising awareness The playful and humourful ap- of the AdopteUnMec name and proach of AdopteUnMec is not profile, the company created a restricted to its introduction boutique, where men were dis- services. With 40 employees, played as dolls in boxes. “It was this philosophy is instilled into all a very strong advertisement from aspects and levels of the company which we profited significantly,” itself. “We even have a Happiness notes Ms. Sananikone. “Today, we Manager,” laughs Ms. Sananikone. generally use more conventional “This person takes care of the advertising methods.” Despite its well-being of our employees. We success, AdopteUnMec is aiming have yoga courses, and we provide to expand into new markets, and a massage service, for example. is also open to developing its core We also have team events as often product, nevertheless remaining as possible, which the company true to its principle of women as organizes. Last year we went ski- the focal point. In the world of on- ing together.” Work-life balance is line introduction portals, at least as The new AdopteUnMec app: women can search for their ideal partner while on the move also a huge consideration. Instead of having set working hours, staff far as AdopteUnMec is concerned, women continue to reign. ❙ With the AdopteUnMec introduction portal, women are in focus; they make the selections and control contact so that they feel safe and secure 7 www.european-business.com N A E P O R U E business

N A E P O R U E business • Get to know leading heads in economy and politics • Exclusive interviews • More than 1,000 Business Profiles • Specials on industries and selected topics • Free newsletter www.european-business.com business business Nbusiness Nbusiness Nbusiness Nbusiness N N A A A A A A E E E E E E P P P P P P O O O O O O R R R R R R U U U U U U E E E E E E VitrineMedia Enterprise 50 Route de la Reine 92100 Boulogne-Billancourt France  +33 1 49210061  +33 1 70248559  contact@vitrinemedia.com  www.vitrinemedia.com a global growth market, spurred on plans to grow its international posi- by the growing digitalization of the tion. “At present, we have custom- advertising industry. “The market ers in 28 countries,” explains Mr. is highly dynamic and advancing Guillaume. “The goal is to have a very rapidly,” explains Mr. Guil- significant market presence and laume. “Through our display solu- brand awareness in 50 countries tions, customers can grow their by 2020. When we started, we did visibility, turnover and profit. On not expect to be that successful. average, our customers achieve an But we are still at the beginning increase in sales of 30%.” as many companies are only just starting to realize the potential and VitrineMedia is dedicated to pro- advantages of local communica- viding optimum solutions and tion through digital shop window services. “Our priority today is displays that help them generate more sales, increase profitability and enhance brand visibility.” ❙ existing customers and their in- dividual requirements,” says Mr. Guillaume. At the same time, the company wants to strengthen the use of advanced digital display technologies. “We started offering digital image solutions last year and want to further expand this segment,” says Mr. Guillaume. Last but not least, VitrineMedia 9 www.european-business.com

While the split between sweet and savoury delicacies is roughly even, Lenôtre is particularly known for its sweet treats. Company founder Gaston Lenôtre was praised as the patissier of the century, and the company’s chefs are keen to continue in his footsteps. In 1971 Lenôtre set up a training academy to train a new generation of pastry chefs and chefs in the skills needed to be successful in the gastronomy sector. Today, the academy is the largest of its kind in Europe with a total area of 12,000 m2 and a staff of 500. “The people who train with Opulent Napoleonic-era interiors add to the luxurious ambiance at Lenôtre’s three-star Pré Catalan restaurant in Paris (Photo: Richard Haughton) clients with its expertise and expe- sional standards worldwide thanks even has an outlet in Berlin’s icon- us are all highly motivated and rience to conceive and implement to our position as part of the So- ic department store Kaufhaus des supremely talented,” says Mr. Le business events of all kinds with a dexo Group,” adds Mr. Le Fur. The Westens. These outlets and the Fur. “However, we also run regular truly customized service. The scale gastronomy giant took over Lenôtre webshop serve up a wide selection seminars for amateur chefs to of the events to which Lenôtre from the Accor hotel chain in 2011 of appetizers, three-course lunch teach them some of the classics of lends its unique touch ranges from with the intention of increasing its menus, desserts and after-dinner French and international cuisine.” grand to intimate. “Around three international activities. “It is cur- chocolates, all of which can be de- quarters of the events we arrange rently my focus as Managing Di- livered daily. Altogether, the menu are for B2B customers and range rector to increase our international comprises some 6,000 individual from incentives, business lunches, presence by repositioning the items, all of which are made with press conferences and seminars to brand with a new concept for both the same painstaking attention to corporate parties,” says Mr. Le Fur. the domestic and international detail. ››› Managing Director Laurent Le Fur has been with Lenôtre since 2013 and is responsible for overseeing its interna- tional growth (Photo: Steph Peyriguer) “We are known as the place to go markets,” says Mr. Le Fur. for something really special. For a handful of attendees to a few thou- Although its event management sand, we help our clients give each activities have won the Lenôtre of their guests an unforgettable name widespread recognition memory of an event that perfectly among its clients, it is its work as met their expectations and mir- a producer of elegant sweet and rored their corporate image.” savoury delicacies that ranks as its main activity and attracts an The logistical expertise that allows even wider audience. These are Lenôtre to guarantee that thou- available to order via the Lenôtre sands of guests at a sit-down event webshop or from one of its 52 can enjoy their food at the same boutiques in 13 different countries. time has been developed over the There are ten stores in the French years and distributed throughout a capital alone while Lenôtre also network of local branches that en- has a presence in Japan, Korea, sure nationwide coverage. “We can the Middle East, Las Vegas, Bang- also guarantee the same profes- kok and Beijing, to name a few. It 11 www.european-business.com N A E P O R U E business

Interview with Christelle Gaspar, Export and Sales Director of Architecture du Bois – Terrasses Grad Outdoor concept made of wood It is the only invisible fastening system for wooden terraces which has been certified by an independent body: the JuAn® clip. The ingenious development was made by Architecture du Bois – Terrasses Grad, the European number one in wooden terraces. The innovative com- pany sets itself apart through its 360° concept, including everything from sustainable wood to railings, stairs and outdoor furniture to customized assembly solutions. Architecture du Bois – Terrasses Export and Sales Director Christelle In 2016, Architecture du Bois – Germany to expand our market Grad is a leading French and Eu- Gaspar. In 2005, Architecture du Terrasses Grad was acquired by position there.” Architecture du ropean supplier of outdoor equip- Bois – Terrasses Grad introduced the Burger Company in Alsace. Bois – Terrasses Grad also aims ment and is particularly recognized an innovative, patented invisible As a result, the company changed to develop new distribution chan- for its top-quality wooden terrace fastening system for wooden ter- its distribution concept, selling its nels, such as DIY stores, enhance products. Besides wooden ter- races: the JuAn® clip. “It is the products not through its own fran- automation in manufacturing, and races, the company offers stone- only invisible system which has chise chain anymore, but through continue innovating and rounding ware terraces, lighting products, been certified by the FCBA, an about 100 distribution partners off its comprehensive product as- railings, stairs, fences, wall clad- independent French testing insti- across France. The wooden terrace sortment. “We don’t offer just wood ding and extensions, as well as a tute,” states Ms. Gaspar. “Since we specialist wants to grow its export but a complete outdoor concept,” wide choice of outdoor installations launched the JuAn® clip, we have business further, as Ms. Gaspar explains Ms. Gaspar. “Our goal is such as pergolas, carports and installed over one million square explains: “Our current export rate to develop the concept further and furniture. Based in Niedermodern meters of the system.” Architec- is 30%. Our most important inter- become a provider of all-inclusive, in Alsace in north-eastern France, ture du Bois – Terrasses Grad uses national markets are Germany and integrated outdoor equipment Architecture du Bois – Terrasses wood exclusively from sustainable, Italy, followed by Benelux, the UK Grad was founded in 1988. “We non-tropical sources. Since 2012, and more distant destinations such solutions and thus to expand our leading position in Europe.” ❙ are a pioneer in terrace construc- the terrace expert has been selling as Bulgaria, Cyprus and Canada. tion and have been the market its products under the Grad brand We have just signed a distribution leader in Europe since 2005,” says name. contract with a large partner in Elegant terrace in thermo-ash, a thermally modified, knotless wood 13 www.european-business.com Architecture du Bois – Terrasses Grad Zone d’Activités Niedermodern 11 Rue de l’Artisanat 67350 Niedermodern France  +33 3 88076567  +33 3 88078354  contact@groupe-grad.com  www.gradconcept.com N A E P O R U E business

The first phase of construction on its own balcony or terrace. Land- applies. “Instead of levying 20% company in good health,” says Mr. the project in Villejuif is due for scaped communal gardens add VAT in these areas, the apartments Jouitteau. “We are a relatively small completion by the end of 2018 to the quality of life still further we build have a reduced rate of player in comparison to the big with subsequent phases to fol- while proximity to urban rapid only 5.5% VAT,” explains Mr. Jouit- national developers. However, we low. Located 4 km from the Porte transport networks ensures com- teau. “This makes the apartments are firmly implanted in our home d’Italie and close to Orly Airport, muters a convenient commute to much more accessible for first- region with a strong reputation and the development is just 10 km work.” The development is one of time buyers and people on lower a solid portfolio of successful refer- from the centre of Paris and there- the closest to the city center that incomes.” ences. We set ourselves apart from fore in prime commuter belt for PROMO GERIM has undertaken to our competitors through our focus the city. The project is one of the date. “So far we have focused our PROMO GERIM targets its devel- on partnership and close relation- most ambitious urban regenera- construction activities in the I’lle de opments at two main customer ships with all of the stakeholders tion projects currently underway France region, such as Essonne groups – first-time buyers and buy- involved in the project. Our direct in the French capital and when and Val de Marne in particular,” to-let investors. Demand for new contacts with decision makers at completed will offer a balanced says Mr. Jouitteau, whose father housing is strong, and PROMO mayoral level helps us land con- mix of residential accommodation, Yves founded the company in the GERIM generates between 70 tracts more easily.” office and retail space. “Résidence early 1980s and still holds the and 100 million EUR each year in Apollinaire in Villejuif is a modern company presidency. “We want to turnover. The family company’s Another factor in PROMO GERIM’s apartment complex offering resi- remain focused on this area as our activities are organized into a favour is that it is not an invest- dential units of varying size from work relies very heavily on building group owned by a holding com- ment group but a group of en- single studio apartments to three up and maintaining contacts with pany which is in turn owned by the gineers and technical experts. or four-bedroom penthouses,” says the relevant authorities in the local Jouitteau family. Each company in Its 35 employees do not see the Managing Director Alain Jouit- communes.” Another reason for the group is headed up by one of buildings they develop purely as teau. “Each apartment is finished focusing on the peripheral districts the founder’s children. “PROMO investment vehicles but as homes to the highest standards and has is the favourable rate of VAT that GERIM is involved in project de- for real people. “We want to build velopment and management from the best possible infrastructure to the purchase of the land to the build communities that function,” design of the building and the sale says Mr. Jouitteau. “The quality of the individual units,” explains and design of the homes we create Mr. Jouitteau. “The other operat- has a direct impact on the quality ing companies in the group are of life in our local area. We want PLANCHAT INGENIERIE, which to build long-lasting, desirable ac- carries out engineering work on commodation with an added value the projects, and PROMOKOM, that is more than just financial. My which is responsible for market- motivation lies in seeing what has ing and sales.” Mr. Jouitteau and become of these communities 20 his brother and sister Marc and years down the line and how they Elisabeth are Joint Directors of the have flourished. Our goal is not to holding while their father continues grow much more but to continue in the role of President. to offer our clients a superior ser- vice. If we build an average of 500 However, a change is ahead at the new residential units each year top of the company as founder and do so to a high standard, then Yves Jouitteau looks towards retire- we will be doing well for ourselves ment. “My father will be stepping back his involvement from the and well for the communities we serve.” ❙ summer onwards and leaves us a N A E P O R U E business 15 www.european-business.com

the means to push forward its versatile as possible in line international expansion and new with our philosophy of ‘adopt customers in the shape of its new not adapt’,” says Mr. Payet. parent. “Individual adaptations increase maintenance costs further down Wyde’s clients include some very the line which is why we have big names in the insurance sector developed a standard that is but also some small to mid-sized widely applicable with minimal insurance carriers. It supports adaptation.” insurance life cycle processing for group life and voluntary benefits, Wyde recently launched Wynsure individual insurance and credit as a ‘software as a service’ protection. “We mainly target the solution to increase flexibility for its life and health insurance market, customers. A second development although our Wynsure product focus is on digital transformation. is suitable for all insurance- “We make use of new technologies related lines of bsuiness,” says to design a user interface that is Mr. Payet. The software covers straightforward and user-friendly, back office and front office tasks basing it on internet standards including underwriting, billing, pioneered by Facebook and policy services, claims, customer Google,” says Mr. Payet. “We are services, analytics and document constantly optimizing the software management. It helps to and want to develop new services streamline existing processes and that will offer customers a one-stop- workflows and optimize customer shop.” Wyde is currently working service. It is also adapted to the with partners editing, EDM, CRM various different legal frameworks and analytics in order to integrate in the different markets in these segments and offer an even which it is implemented. “We work to make the software as broader, more comprehensive product. ❙ Would you like to know what makes companies and entrepreneurs tick? Then follow us! Read interviews, company profiles, and business and political news via our social media channels:    facebook.com/european.biz.news www.linkedin.com/company/european-business/ https://twitter.com/European_Biz European Business LISTICLES A Listicle is an article published as a visually ap- pealing list. European Business publishes Listicles to help our audience cope with the challenges of their private and professional life. Wyde 103/105 Rue Anatole France 92300 Levallois-Perret France  +33 1 58186600  +33 1 58186601  info@wyde.com  www.wyde.com 17 www.european-business.com more at: business WWW.EUROPEAN-BUSINESS.COM/LISTICLES/ N A E P O R U E

A E P O R U E Nbusiness We have made it simple … to locate the businesses you are interested in! All the interviews and company profiles featured on our website now include Google Maps geotagging so you can see where potential suppliers, customers and even competitors are situated. Go to www.european-business.com to explore the business hotspots of Europe business N A E P O R U E Pierre Clarence offers a range of modern menswear designed by the company’s own design team addresses. This is hugely valuable ist. Every year, we print about 35 and provides us with a number of million catalogues, some of which synergies from a loyal customer are quite small and are distributed base. Even though we operate as supplements in newspapers eight stores, they account for only and magazines,” explains Mr. 2% of our turnover. The majority Smith. “Our customers still very of products are sold via our cata- much appreciate the catalogue logues and websites.” and love browsing through it. This is one reason why the catalogue At the moment, Financière Trésor in paper form will remain a core du Patrimoine and its group of element of our corporate policy.” companies respectively are only For every taste, there is the right active in France, but export could catalogue with an interesting range turn into an option for the future. “I of products to choose from. Even do not want to continue along that after 30 years in the business, the path on my own but I would rather catalogues of the group of compa- target internationalization with the nies have not lost their fascination right partners abroad. We have the to the customer. There is always know-how and competence, but it requires a respectable partner with something he will love and want to order. ❙ the same background. Apart from books or coins, most of our prod- ucts like food or everyday gadgets can be exported easily,” stresses Mr. Smith. A strong focus is always on emerging marketing oppor- tunities and new developments. Despite soaring online sales, mail ordering is still going strong. “Catalogues still have a right to ex- 19 www.european-business.com Financière Trésor du Patrimoine SAS 6 Rue Anatole de la Forge 75017 Paris France  +33 1 53811658  adirection@ tresordupatrimoine.fr  www.tresordupatrimoine.fr

Société d’Exploitation des Eaux du Montcalm Route d’Artiès 09220 Auzat France  +33 805 701061  www.montcalm.fr Montcalm water is renowned for its purity and perfect balance of minerals; sold in specialist organic stores, it is available in three convenient bottle sizes calm, plus the low sodium content ing them ecologically sound and ence,” stresses Mr. Degaey. “Quality questions, in particular about the makes it especially suitable for the gentle on nature. Montcalm also is everything. Our goal is not to be quality of tap water, and whether preparation of baby food,” explains tries, as far as possible, to distribute the market leader in terms of the it is really a good idea to drink it.” Mr. Degaey. “Montcalm is easily the water using the railway network, quantity of water we sell. Far more The organic market remains Mont- digestible and is the perfect water another initiative designed to protect important to us is that we retain the calm’s focus, and new customers for a balanced diet for everyone.” the environment. Montcalm water high quality of our product.” in this sector are its target. Mr. is sold primarily through special- Degaey is responsible for customer The concern produces several mil- ist organic food shops, and to a Mr. Degaey believes the demand care, and is highly motivated, both lion bottles of Montcalm mineral lesser extent, in restaurants, across for high-quality bottled water is still by his job and the product he sells. water every year, which is sold in France. The company also exports on the increase. “These days, con- “I have something very concrete three different bottle sizes: the 1.5 approximately 5% of its production, sumers are far more careful about here,” he sums up. “The qual- l standard bottle is the best seller; mainly to neighbouring countries, the water they drink,” he points out. ity of Montcalm water is also very 0.5 l and 5 l packs are also avail- including Belgium, Spain, Swit- “There are many brands of water, concrete. It comes from a magical able. Even the bottles are true to zerland and Germany. “As far as but a growing number of people region, where no human activity is the company’s philosophy; they are our customers are concerned, the are focusing on the quality of their made from recycled plastic, mak- quality of our water makes the differ- water. They ask very searching to be found. Montcalm is simply special.” ❙ Quality is everything: the water is tested every day in the company’s own laboratory Montcalm employs twelve dedicated staff, who process a product which comes from a magical region 21 www.european-business.com N A E P O R U E business

Interview with Michel Guérard, French celebrity chef and Nouvelle Cuisine pioneer I’ve never created any dish thinking, “Will it be trendy?” He ranks among the most outstanding char- acters in French Nouvelle Cuisine, and this year he set a new international benchmark as a chef. Michel Guérard and his renowned restaurant at Les Prés d’Eugénie in the south- west of France have been awarded three Michelin stars 40 years in a row! Besides the jubilee, European Food talked to Mr. Guérard about his slim approach to star cuisine and why he welcomes the rising public interest in the cooking profession. [...]  Read more online webcode: 1025 www.european-food.com N A E P O R U E business Halal products are one of the fastest-evolving segments of the food market ing standards, are purchased Bibars operates in a very dynamic alive. “We buy in large quantities market, with double-digit annual in order to spread the extra costs growth rates in many European for quality controls over a large countries. “Demand for halal prod- number of animals,” explains Mr. ucts is very strong,” states Mr. Djedjik. Bibars offers poultry and Djedjik. “Even non-practicing beef and has recently started to Muslims prefer halal food if they distribute mutton too. The com- have the choice. Today, there is an pany sources the vast majority increasing number of restaurants of its meat products from quality and Arabic fast-food chains offering international suppliers in Belgium, halal products.” To grow its position Hungary, Ireland, Poland, Roma- in the rapidly developing halal food nia and Spain. In addition to fresh sector further, Bibars is working on and frozen meat, Bibars offers an online shop selling halal prod- a growing range of convenience ucts to private consumers. At the products. Besides restaurants and same time, the company plans to fast-food places, the company launch its own brand-name range caters to the French food industry with three halal food brands. “One and large supermarket chains, of these will be an organic line,” including market-leading suppliers explains Mr. Djedjik. “We will then such as Auchan and Metro. “Most have two certificates – halal and supermarkets in France have an organic – which is rather unique in assortment of halal products for the French food sector.” Last but Muslims,” says Mr. Djedjik. Bibars not least, Bibars wants to expand generates approximately 80% of its its international activities further. revenues in the domestic market “Before, however, we will have to and has international customers move to our new building to allow in Belgium, Germany, the UK and Morocco. for continued development,” con- cludes Mr. Djedjik. ❙ 23 www.european-business.com