New site in French Ardennes: Forézienne opens in Tournes
Forézienne, a supplier of solutions for the sawmilling industry from the Loire, is continuing to expand with a new site in French Ardennes.
With 45 years' experience and 320 staff across five sites, the manufacturer of cutting tools for wood processing was in search of a new base to serve northern France and the Benelux.
Previously, this area was looked after by the Alsace site. The group has sales of around 46 million euros and already covers more than 100 countries worldwide, with its main activity in Europe.
Through the support of Ardennes Développement, which identified the project via its in.site Ardennes property showcase, and active contact with Rimbaud'Immo, CEO Christian Sénégas found a site that suited his needs close to the Étienne Riché de Belval Aerodrome where he is a client. Forézienne has purchased the 4300 sqm building from Tünkers (an automotive equipment manufacturer) and rents 1300 sqm of renovated space on the Émeraude de Tournes-Cliron business park to the Tünkers-Sopap sales and technical team. Its Ardennes site will manufacture saw blades tailored to demand, using semi-finished products made in the Loire, and will provide an after-sales service.
Forézienne is more than just a manufacturer, providing maintenance and training too. The company is also Qualiopi-certified (a compulsory certification for recognition as a training organisation). Amazed by French Ardennes welcome, Mr Sénégas and his team have received many CVs in collaboration with Pôle Emploi.
The company is currently training its first Ardennes staff, while renovation work is underway. Nearly €3 million will be invested (€1.8 million in the building and €1.2 million in equipment). Ultimately, the site should employ 20 to 25 people.
In French Ardennes, a wooded area close to major European capitals, the wood industry is already well represented, with numerous sawmills, joineries and internationally renowned groups such as Unilin. The arrival of Forézienne adds to and supports the development of this sector, in concert with the region's metallurgical heritage.
By Ardennes Développement, the Ardennes economic development agency - ardennes-developpement.com