Femia industrie

Cognos France / Societex Corporate Finance advises an operation in the agro-industrial field

FEMIA INDUSTRIE, the French specialist in machines and process lines for fruit and vegetable processing, is taken over by Vincent BERNARD and FINORPA.

Founded in 1962, FEMIA INDUSTRIE specialises in the design, manufacture and maintenance of equipment and production lines for the industrial processing of fruit and vegetables. FEMIA is notably the European leader for sweetcorn, pea and green bean lines.

For over 60 years, FEMIA has equipped canning, freezing and fresh food manufacturers worldwide.
With a 7-strong projects and engineering department (20% of total staff), FEMIA offers tailor-made solutions and supports its customers in optimising their process lines.

FEMIA is a major player in the industrial processing of vegetables in France and abroad, with around 50% of its sales generated internationally.
The Company, which has around thirty employees, had sales of over €10m and a double-digit EBITDA margin at 30/09/2023.

Vincent BERNARD, the buyer-manager, has a long career in large companies, both in France and abroad, during which he created and managed various types of structures in complex and competitive industrial environments. His managerial experience and international background will ensure the long-term future of the business while continuing FEMIA’s growth.
Vincent BERNARD is supported by FINORPA as a minority shareholder, and has completed his financing with a banking pool led by Société Génale, BRED, Crédit Agricole Nord de France and BPI France.

Olivier TISSIER, Chairman and majority shareholder of FEMIA, is re-engaging with Vincent BERNARD in this takeover, and will support him for a period of 18 months.

SOCIETEX CF was commissioned exclusively by FEMIA INDUSTRIE’s shareholders to find strategic partners willing to support the company’s next phase of development. A competitive process has been put in place, which has attracted the interest of a number of candidates (industrialists and individual buyers).

SOCIETEX CF has proven expertise in supporting business transfers, guaranteeing a transaction within 12 months thanks to their experience and network of contacts. They are very familiar with the industrial sector and know how to identify and qualify potential buyers. After 6 months, I selected the best offer from among 6 letters of intent, which ensures the best future for FEMIA Industrie. Their help was crucial, especially during the 4-month audit. SOCIETEX CF also excelled during the final negotiation phase, respecting the conditions laid down. I appreciated their availability, competence, responsiveness and friendliness. The first 3 months of support for the buyer went well, confirming that we had made the right choice for the development of FEMIA Industrie Olivier TISSIER, CEO of FEMIA

Thomas Beaurain