Category: Blog

We are looking for sales representative in the packaging sector for the North of France for our Spanish client, a manufacturer specialised in the creation and design of communication supports and customised and tailor-made sample presentation kits for every need. The target sectors: construction, building materials, pharmaceuticals, electrical equipment, publishing, banks and insurance companies, training…

We are looking for sales representatives in the packaging sector, experienced, who speaks French and Spanish and has some knowledge of POS.

Interesting economic conditions and flexible working hours (home office). For more details, please see the following link:

Si vous êtes intéressé postulez directement en ligne

Our client

Our client is a leading packaging company, specialising in providing innovative and sustainable solutions for a wide range of industries including food, beverage, cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. With an unwavering commitment to quality and sustainability, our client stands out for its ability to adapt to the specific needs of each of its customers, providing packaging that not only meets the highest safety standards, but is also environmentally friendly. We are looking for sales representatives in the packaging sector to fill the vacancy that has arisen in its staff.

Their Mission: Their mission is to transform the way companies think about packaging. The belief that every package can be an opportunity to innovate and contribute to a more sustainable future motivates him every day. He strives to offer products that not only protect and present our customers’ products, but also minimise environmental impact.

Products and Services: Offers a wide range of packaging solutions, including plastic, paper and cardboard packaging, designed to meet the specific needs of each sector. Its team of experts works closely with customers to develop customised designs that reflect brand identity and enhance the consumer experience. It also implements advanced technologies in its production processes, ensuring efficiency and quality at every stage.

Commitment to Sustainability: is committed to sustainability. It uses recyclable and biodegradable materials, and adopts responsible production practices that reduce waste and resource consumption. It aims to help its customers meet their own sustainability goals by offering solutions that align with their values.

Continuous Innovation: Innovation is at the heart of n,. our customer. It constantly invests in research and development to stay at the forefront of market trends and customer needs. From designing attractive packaging to implementing cutting-edge technologies, they are dedicated to delivering solutions that make a difference.

Why Choose Our Client: By choosing them, you not only get a packaging supplier, but a strategic partner committed to your success. Their attention to detail, focus on quality and dedication to sustainability make them the ideal choice for companies looking to stand out in a competitive market.

Our client hires us with guidelines and job descriptions and so, We are looking for sales representatives in the packaging sector to join their team who can drive sales in France.

The made-to-measure samples manufacturing sector in France

The French bespoke sample book manufacturing sector is a specialised niche within the packaging industry that focuses on creating customised solutions for various industries, such as fashion, cosmetics, food and interior design. These sample presentation kits are essential tools for companies, as they allow them to display products in an attractive and functional way, facilitating presentation and sales.

In France, this sector is characterised by its focus on quality and craftsmanship, with a strong emphasis on design and customisation. Companies operating in this field often work closely with their customers to understand their specific needs and offer solutions that align with their brand identity.

In addition, sustainability is gaining ground in sample manufacturing, with an increase in demand for environmentally friendly materials and responsible production processes. This reflects a broader trend in the market towards more sustainable and environmentally conscious practices.

In summary, the bespoke pattern making sector in France is a creative and growing field, combining customisation, quality and sustainability to meet the needs of various industries.

Hire our services to recruit candidates for international positions and forget about long and tedious recruitment processes.

The ICT market in France is highly developed. In fact, the French market has a large network of technopoles from which it promotes ICT. A gathering of knowledge, experts, ICT-related companies to foster synergies.

The 27 main technology parks of the ICT market in France

The 27 main technology parks in France are listed below:

-Pays de Gex Technoparc à Saint Genios Pouilly

-Aisne Technopole à Soissons

-Micropolis – Parc Technologique à Gap

-Sophia Antipolis in Nice

-Technopole Aube en Champagne à Troyes

-Technopole of Marseille-Provence in Marseille

-Technopole environnemental – Arbois Méditerranée à Aix en Provence

– Anticipa Technopole à Lannion

-Technopole Brest- Iroise à Brest

-Enova Labège Toulouse – Agrobiopole à Sicoval

-Scientific and Technological Park of Laseris at Barp

-Rennes Atalante in Rennes

-Angers technopole : Parc scientifique de Belle-Beille and Parc scientifique des Capucins à Angers

-Laval-Mayenne Technopole at Laval

-Technopole of Metz in Metz

-Biopôle Clermont-Limagne à Saint-Beauzire

-Izarbel – Technopole of the Basque Country

-Mulhouse Technopole à Mulhouse

-Domaine Scientifique de la Doua à Villeurbanne

-Savoie Technolac at Le Bourget

-Archamps Technopole à Archamps

-Technopole Madrillet à Saint-Etienne Rouvray

-Technopole Madrillet at Saint-Etienne Rouvray

-Technoparc Poissy at Poissy

-Agroparc in Avignon

-Futuroscope in Chasseneuil – Poitou

– ESTER Limoges Technopole à Limoges

– Campus Saint-Christophe à Cergy-Pontoise

The pioneer of the ICT market in France was Sophia Antipolis in Nice and many others followed. All of them are closely linked to the world of business and education.

In 2016, the information and communication technologies market in France represented 113 billion euros.

The different categories of the ICT market in France

The ICT market in France is broad and diverse, encompassing a variety of categories that focus on different aspects of technology and communication. Here are some of the main categories of the sector:

1. Hardware: Includes all physical devices used in technology, such as computers, servers, mobile devices, printers, and electronic components.
2. Software: Comprises the programs and applications that enable users to perform specific tasks. This includes operating systems, productivity applications, business management software, and mobile applications.
3. Telecommunications: Refers to the infrastructure and services that enable remote communication, such as fixed and mobile telephone networks, internet, and data transmission services.
4. Internet services: Includes internet service providers (ISPs), web hosting services, and e-commerce platforms.
5. Cybersecurity: Focuses on protecting systems, networks and data from cyber attacks. This includes security software, auditing services and security consulting.
6. Big Data and Data Analytics: Refers to the collection, storage and analysis of large volumes of data to gain valuable insights and make informed decisions.
7. Artificial Intelligence (AI): Includes technologies that enable machines to learn and perform tasks that normally require human intelligence, such as natural language processing and machine learning.
8. Application Development: Refers to the creation of software and applications for different platforms, including mobile, web and desktop applications.
9. Cloud Computing: Includes services that allow data to be stored and processed over the internet, rather than on local servers.
10. IoT (Internet of Things): Refers to the interconnection of devices and objects over the internet, enabling data collection and sharing.
11. Augmented and Virtual Reality: Technologies that create immersive experiences by overlaying digital information on the real world or creating virtual environments.
12. E-learning and EdTech: Refers to technologies applied to education, including online learning platforms and digital educational tools.

Some key figures for the ICT market in France:

• 8 % : this is the share of value added by the creation of custom software compared to the total sector. This corresponds to 6 billion euros.
• 3.86 % : corresponds to the weight of ICT in France’s GDP in 2014. A higher ratio than that observed in Spain or Italy, but lower than in Germany (4.19%).
• 25 % : digital technology now contributes more than 25% of French growth, compared to 20% in the 2005-2009 period.
• 131,835 : this is the number of companies operating in the ICT market in France. Of this total, there are only 1,650 industrial software development companies and 6,579, the vast majority of companies, are service companies

Despite the fact that companies in this sector tend to be SMEs or micro-companies (many start-ups), in France we find companies of a larger size than those in Spain.

The ICT market in France is more mature, but not as mature as the German market, which has an older and more consolidated business network.

Contact us and embark on the adventure of exporting ICT to France, we will help you throughout the process!

The interior decoration sector in France is on the rise and so is the global one, and this trend is set to continue. In 2018, the turnover of the ‘Furniture and Home Furnishings’ sector amounted to 165,366 million euros. By 2022, the market volume is expected to reach EUR 258,714 million, which represents an annual growth of 11.8%. China is the main revenue generator (€62,373 million in 2018). But what are the key drivers of this positive change, and what trends is the sector experiencing?

The drivers of the interior decoration sector in France

There are many reasons for the positive outlook in this segment:

• Real estate supply and consumer purchasing power are on the rise. The unemployment rate in the first quarter of 2018 is the lowest recorded in the eurozone since December 2008. As long as people have the money, there will be consumption.
• There is rapid growth in sales among the millennial clientele. Older millennials are becoming homeowners, rather than renters, for now. They have experienced the explosion of interior design service while growing up and are therefore more likely to hire interior designers to help them furnish their homes. On the other hand, younger millennials are at the beginning of their career and are starting to have more disposable income. In general, millennials prefer to shop online, appreciate authenticity and sustainability and are on-demand shoppers.
• The number of sources of information and inspiration is greater than ever. Home decorating programmes, magazines, social networks… People consume them and are encouraged to refurnish or decorate their homes.

All this has a strong impact on sales in the interior decoration sector in France and in many other markets.

Trends in the interior decoration sector in France

Growth is coming, but not necessarily from traditional distribution channels. Also in the interior decoration sector in France, e-commerce is taking over. Convenience and price convenience are the main reasons for customers favouring one-click shopping. This means that industry leaders continue to invest capital in logistics and home delivery. Consumers who value service and the experience of seeing and touching the product before buying it still exist, but they prefer to use retailers that differentiate themselves and offer added value, such as knowledgeable staff, customer service, etc.

In addition, as customers become more and more environmentally conscious, eco-friendly products are also becoming a key element in home décor. Natural, recycled and organic materials appeal to this group of customers and products such as thermal curtains or FSC certified wood (which means avoiding deforestation) allow for guilt-free shopping.

Individuality and the need to express one’s own style is another visible trend. Customers like to give their furniture an individual touch and therefore options to personalise objects are becoming increasingly popular.

Major trade fairs in the interior decoration sector in France and around the world

The place to keep up to date and analyse the latest trends in the industry are the trade fairs:

• MAISON&OBJET, Paris MOM (7-11 September 2018 and 18-21 January 2019): A great B2B platform to find out about the latest decoration trends and products, interior design solutions and decoration accessories. It takes place twice a year in France.
• ARCHITECT @ WORK – LYON, Architecture and Interior Design Exhibition. ARCHITECT@WORK gives you the opportunity to come into contact with: architects, interior architects, designers, engineering offices, project developers, technical services,
• Light & Building, Premiere showcase, industry meeting place and business forum: Light + Building is the stage for the latest lighting trends and a source of inspiration for building services technology. From 8 to 13 March 2020, Frankfurt am Main is the place where premieres are celebrated and trends are set.
• Imm Cologne, The Imm Cologne is an international furniture trade fair that takes place every year. This mega event is divided into two main themes: a) LivingKitchen and b) LivingInteriors. The LivingKitchen exhibitions take place every odd-numbered year, while LivingInteriors takes place every even-numbered year. In this way, the event is able to tap into the business communities of both the kitchen and other home interiors segments. LivingKitchen will be held from 14 to 20 January 2019 at the Cologne Trade Fair.
• Ambiente, Frankfurt, Germany (8-12 February 2019): Meats of business and creativity in Frankfurt, where you can explore diversity in the areas of eating, giving and living.
• FamaArt, Bologna, Italy (1-3 March 2019): An event showcasing products such as photography, gifts, home decor accessories and more.
• Cafexpo, Yiwu, China (18-20 September 2018): The China Art and Frame Show is the meeting point for professionals in the frame and art industry.
• IMOB, This annual international event highlights modern and avant-garde furniture, modular furniture, classic and neoclassical furniture, seating groups, office furniture, sets for babies, children and teenagers, miscellaneous furniture and accessories. Earlier this year, the event took place at the CNR Expo in Istanbul, Turkey, from 22-27 January 2019.
• Creativa Zaragoza, Spain (4-6 May 2018): This fair is accessible to the public and also takes place in Madrid, Barcelona, Malaga, Valencia, Dortmund (Germany) and Metz (France).
• Intergift, Madrid, Spain (12-16 September 2018): Unlike its name, Intergift also focuses on décor and furnishings, textiles, homewares, handicrafts, travel goods and a range of creative ideas for casual and fancy gifts as well as useful objects.
• Salon de la Photo, Paris, France (8-12 November 2018): Whether you are interested in taking photos, printing or digital retouching – you are at the right address.
• Créations Savoir-Faire, Paris, France (28 November – 2 December 2018): An exhibition specialising in crafts and DIY.
• EspritMeuble, Paris, France (1-4 December 2018): Furniture, sofas, living rooms, beds and decorations take centre stage at this fair.
• Bisou Salon Professionnel du Cadeau, Nice, France (12-14 January 2019): In addition to gifts, souvenirs and decoration, you can also find gourmet gifts, personalised jewellery and much more.

At Barcelona Export we are specialists in the export of the interior decoration sector in France. Do not hesitate to contact us if you have a project you would like to start or consolidate.

The gardening sector in France – private sector

The gardening sector in France (private sector) accounted for €7.6 billion in 2014. 

The gardening sector in France is a growing sector and presents various opportunities. Some key aspects are:

1. Sustainability Trends: There is a growing interest in sustainable and eco-friendly gardening. Consumers are looking for products that are environmentally friendly, such as native plants, efficient irrigation systems and organic fertilisers.
2. Increasing Green Space: With increasing urbanisation, many people are looking for ways to create green space in their homes, whether in gardens, on balconies or terraces. This has led to an increase in demand for plants, tools and gardening services.
3. Gardening services: In addition to the sale of products, there is a growing demand for gardening services, such as garden design, maintenance and landscaping. Many people prefer to hire professionals to ensure that their green spaces are well cared for.
4. E-commerce: Online sales of gardening products have grown significantly, especially after the pandemic. Online shops offer a wide range of products, from plants to tools and accessories.
5. Events and Fairs: France hosts several gardening fairs and exhibitions, such as Jardins, Jardin and Salon du Végétal, where garden professionals can network and discover new trends and products.
6. Education and Workshops: There is a growing interest in gardening education, with workshops and courses teaching people how to care for their gardens and grow their own plants.

Consumer habits in the gardening sector in France

The French consumer buys 82% of equipment in large garden centres (such as Gammevert, Jardiland, etc.) and prefers proximity and choice. In second place are the DIY superstores (such as Mr Bricolage, Leroy Merlin, etc.), with 46%, for the same reasons.

Supermarkets such as Leclerc, Super Uno or Auchan come in third place with 43%, mainly for price reasons, and finally the web with 14%, in commercial places, for its simplicity. In 54% of the cases, the purchase is already planned by the customer, and 65% of the time of purchase is in spring or summer. In 29% of cases, customers are willing to buy more than what they came to buy. The chains most visited by customers are Truffaut, Jardiland and Leroy Merlin.

The areas where people are most passionate about gardening are Franche Comté, Languedoc Rosselló and Aquitaine. On the other hand, the least important gardening comes from Nord Calais, Ile de France and Pays de la Loire.

The distribution channels of the gardening sector in France

The gardening sector in France has recorded an average annual growth of 1% over the last decade. This overall performance highlights the disparities between distribution channels:

– Circuits that have been able to exploit promising market trends (development of environmental sensitivity, increased attention of the French to their garden, considered as a living room and where they invest) show above average growth. This is the case for garden centres which benefit from the dynamism of outdoor plants, develop in related segments and strengthen in green leisure and GSB which position themselves as multi-specialists in habitat / decoration;

– Other channels have below-average growth. GSAs are stagnating, penalised by a predominantly price-driven approach, a reduced offer and a deficit in the areas of supply and advisory/service development. Motorculture specialists have experienced a decline in sales in recent years as a result of the crisis.

Expansion and diversification of supply, modernisation of concepts

The challenges for dealers are:

• Improve the attendance rate of sales outlets. This requires an extension of the garden offer but also the opening in other universes (pet shop, decoration, outdoor recreation, even eating, textile…);
• Quickly adapt the offer to the effects of fashion and weather conditions;
• Attract novice gardeners by offering ready-to-use products so that the garden is not a constraint (kits, made-to-measure planters, etc.);
• Increase customer loyalty. Brands seek to establish an ‘expert’ positioning through advice (at the point of sale and via their website) and services (diagnostics, soil analysis, warranty, loading assistance, etc.);
• Offering attractive prices. In this perspective, white label development is an important strategic focus. This is especially so if low-cost struggles to impose themselves (see the failure of DockJardin), the GSA develops concepts dedicated to the garden (Jardi @E. Leclerc, Les Jardins d’Auchan) and Internet pure players (Cdiscount, Rue carries Commerce) position themselves on the market.

The concentration of the gardening sector in France

It is characterised by the great heterogeneity of chains and groups in terms of economic weight, network size and geographical coverage. This configuration favours a concentration movement, but operators will have to choose between internal or external growth to develop their network given the cost of these operations.

This movement should result in

– new reconciliations between central and independent networks (measurement effect, increased bargaining power);

– the absorption of some networks of insufficient size or regional scale;

– the rise of leading brands with an established reputation and sufficient financial margins to finance the development strategy;

– the decline in the number of independent centres and houses

In France, 17.2 million people live in houses on a regular basis. More than half of the houses have a garden area of at least 600 m², and 89% of French people have a garden space at home. The average garden surface is the highest in Europe, with an average surface of 500 m².

Request our export service to enter the gardening sector in France.

 

SIAL Paris 2018 is one of the most important trade fairs in the food sector worldwide. It takes place from 21 to 25 October 2018 and brings together thousands of exhibitors and visitors from different countries, offering a platform for innovation and exchange of ideas in the food industry.

During Sial Paris 2018, the latest trends in food products, technology and sustainability are presented. Thereare also conferences, workshops and tastings that allow attendees to learn first-hand about what’s new on the market.

What can we expect from Sial Paris 2018?

Sial is known for being a key meeting point for industry professionals, from producers to distributors, facilitating networking and business opportunities. In short, SIAL Paris 2018 is a vibrant and enriching event for everyone involved in the food industry.

Sial Paris 2018 will be a bigger source of inspiration for the global food industry than ever before.

– 7,020 companies from more than 109 countries will present their products to retail and foodservice professionals.

– All types of food products, from ingredients to equipment to end products, will be on display in 21 exhibition sectors.

– Looking for ideas? SIAL Innovation will once again focus on a host of innovative food products.

– Still looking for more? Come and attend the SIAL TV and In-Food Centre conferences, and discover the World Tour’s dedicated retail and consumer trend studies.

A few figures about Sial Paris 2018

Manufacturers:

At SIAL Paris 2018, a wide variety of food manufacturers from around the world are showcased. This event brings together companies spanning different sectors of the food industry, including:

1. fresh food producers: Fruit, vegetables, meat and fish.

2. Processed food manufacturers: canned, frozen and prepared foods.

3. Beverage companies: Wines, beers, juices and other non-alcoholic beverages.

4. Producers of dairy products: Milk, cheese, yoghurt and other dairy products.

5. Manufacturers of organic and healthy products: Food with no additives, gluten-free and vegan options.

6. Snack and confectionery companies: Biscuits, chocolates and snacks.

A few more facts:

– 7,020 exhibitors, suppliers to the agri-food industry.

– 85% international exhibitors

– 109 countries represented

– 21 trade fair sectors and food channels

– France is the most represented country

– 6 main sectors: meat, dairy products, savoury foods, frozen foods, sweet foods, drinks.

– 80% of exhibitors were satisfied with their event and 85% would recommend SIAL.

– 60% of exhibitors declare to realise more than 6 months of additional turnover.

Distributors and retail:

At SIAL Paris 2018, distributors and the retail sector play a key role in connecting food manufacturers and end consumers. This event brings together a variety of key players in the supply chain, including:

1. wholesale distributors: Companies that handle the purchase and distribution of food products to supermarkets, grocery shops and other retailers.

2. Supermarket chains: Large retailers looking for new brands and products to offer their customers, as well as trends in the food market.

3. Specialty shops: Retailers that focus on specific products, such as organic, gourmet or international foods, and are looking for innovations to diversify their offer.

4. E-commerce: Online sales platforms that are constantly growing and looking for novel products to attract digital consumers.

5. Distributors of local products: Companies that focus on promoting regional and local products, supporting producers in their area.

A few more facts:

– 155,700 visitors in total

– 70% international visitors

– 194 countries represented

– 91% of the visitors were satisfied with their visit to the fair.

– 93% were impressed with the variety of products on display at SIAL.

– Major brands visit to find inspiration and products: Walmart, Carrefour, Tesco, Elior, Sodexo, Consumer Goods Forum, Michelin star chefs...

Conclusions of the 2018 edition of Sial Paris

The 2018 edition of SIAL Paris was an outstanding event in the food industry, bringing together thousands of exhibitors and visitors from all over the world. The show focused on innovation and emerging trends in the sector, highlighting sustainability, health and wellness as key themes.

One of the most important conclusions was the growing demand for food products that are not only tasty, but also healthy and environmentally responsible. In addition, there was a strong interest in digitalisation and the use of technology to improve the consumer experience and efficiency in the supply chain.

In short, SIAL Paris 2018 has reaffirmed its position as an essential meeting point for food industry professionals, offering a platform for the exchange of ideas and the promotion of innovation in a constantly evolving market. It has been an inspiring event that has left many with new perspectives and opportunities!

Barcelona Export has in-depth knowledge of this fair and can help you market your products in France.

During the month of September 2018, Catalan companies will once again be able to take advantage of the new coupons d’Acció for the Internationalisation. These are subsidies specially designed to boost the exports of Catalan companies.

What are the Internationalisation Coupons?

They are subsidies for companies that want to start exporting or that, having started, have not consolidated their internationalisation.

Which companies are they aimed at?

They are aimed at companies based in Catalonia that do not export more than 15% and that are up to date with their Social Security and Tax obligations.

What are the Internationalisation Vouchers for?

They are used to hire the professional services of export experts, accredited by Acció. These professionals have had to demonstrate extensive experience in export departments during the course of their professional career.

What is the amount of the subsidy?

The maximum eligible project cost is 5,000 euros and the Acció grant is 80% of the amount.

What services can I request them for?

-Diagnosisof the company’sinternationalisation potential.

-Development ofthe International Promotion Plan: selection of the product or service to be internationalised, the target countries, the distribution channels, preparation of the list of potential clients.

-Design ofthe website for international markets, positioning on the Internet and on social networks.

-Subcontractingof an Export Manager.

-Managementof international tenders and bids.

-Managementfor the registration of trademarks and patents in international markets.

-Accompanimentand advice on participation in international trade fairs.

-Trainingin international trade.

If you want to apply for the Coupons Acció for the Internationalisation 2018 and we, as Accredited advisors, carry out your project, we invite you to contact us.

MAISON&OBJET is the leading international trade trade show in Paris in the decoration sector: interior design, architecture and new global trends. It has its traditional trade show (2 editions per year: January and September) and a digital platform (MOM). It is the focal point for the export of the decoration sector in France.

It brings together all the main players in the sector: interior designers, decorators, wholesalers, distributors, decoration shops and the main brands presenting their new trends.

MOM offers companies in the decoration sector a solution to their needs to promote their products internationally and to reinforce their brand: benefit from its online trade fair MOM for 12 months at a reduced monthly cost.

What is MOM?

The MAISON&OBJET fair has a linked platform to prolong the exhibitor effect offered by its two annual events and to promote decoration articles and brands.

Its slogan is: We continue the MAISON&OBJET experience online!

What exactly does MOM offer the decoration sector?

Longer duration. All year round, display of decorative products and updated designs with access to an unrivalled database.
From any point, prolong the M&O show experience. Visualisation of the products as they are presented on the stands.
MOM increases exchanges and facilitates the requests of

What exactly does MAISON&OBJET offer to the decoration sector?

• More durability. All year round, display of decorative products and updated designs with access to an incomparable database.
• From any point, prolong the M&O show experience. Visualisation of the products as they are presented on the stands.
• MOM increases exchanges and facilitates requests for contacts, information and appointments at the show. It also facilitates the request for quotations and orders.
• An inexhaustible source of inspiration. The selection of experts puts the spotlight on objects that make the M&O community unanimous.
• MAISON&OBJET 2
• In the MAISON&OBJET online exhibition space (MOM) you will find more than 5,000 brands, a wide range of products with a detailed display of each product and the possibility to save visited items as favourites by creating a free account.

What else can MAISON&OBJET (MOM) offer to the decoration sector?

• Highly qualified international contacts
• Visibility of products and collections for 12 months
• 2 million visitors 52% of whom are regular prescribers
• 48% of visits are from distributors
• An average of 8 minutes spent browsing the site
• Each visitor spends an average of 7 pages on the site

MAISON&OBJET (MOM) can also offer the following:

• Trends and New Ideas: MAISON&OBJET is well known for presenting the latest trends in design and decoration, which allows us to offer you a wide range of Trends and New Ideas: MAISON&OBJET is known for presenting the latest trends in design and decoration, allowing industry professionals to stay up-to-date and find inspiration for their projects.
• Networking: The fair facilitates the creation of valuable connections between designers, architects, retailers and manufacturers, which can lead to collaborations and business opportunities.
• Innovation: MAISON&OBJET highlights innovative products and creative solutions, which can help professionals discover new technologies and materials that can enhance their offerings.
• Training and Workshops: Conferences, workshops and seminars addressing relevant topics in design and decoration are often offered, allowing attendees to learn from industry experts.
• International Visibility: Participating in MAISON&OBJET can increase the visibility of brands and products in a global marketplace, helping companies expand their reach and attract new customers.
• Sustainability: MAISON&OBJET also places a strong emphasis on sustainability, providing a space for brands to present their green initiatives and responsible products, which is increasingly important to consumers.
• Digital Platform: With the move towards digital, MAISON&OBJET also offers an online platform that allows industry professionals to access exclusive content.

In short, MAISON&OBJET can be a priceless resource for the decoration sector, providing not only a space to showcase products, but also a rich learning and connecting experience – a place where creativity and innovation meet!

We have accompanied many clients from the decoration sector both within the traditional MAISON&OBJET fair and the virtual one and we highly recommend their participation. If you are interested, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Current trends

In 2016, the value of the market for organic products in France or from organic farming was estimated at €7,147 billion:

• €6.736 billion, corresponds to household consumption (+21.7 % as compared to 2015).
• 411 million euros of purchases of organic products in France are served in out-of-home catering, of which: 229 million euros in mass catering (+5 % compared to 2015) and 182 million euros in commercial catering (+10 % compared to 2015).

Moreover, in 2016, trends in the market for organic products in France showed a change in consumption habits.

Some of the main trends of the market for organic products in France of that year are:

• Increasing demand: French consumers were increasingly interested in organic products, driven by concerns about health, food quality and the environmental impact of conventional farming.
• Product diversification: The variety of organic products available on the market expanded. In addition to fruits and vegetables, consumers started to buy more organic dairy products, meats, cereals and bakery products.
• Preference for local: Many consumers showed a preference for local organic products, valuing freshness and support for farmers in the region.
• Increase in online shopping: Shopping for organic products through online platforms started to gain popularity, facilitating access to a wider variety of products.
• Sustainability awareness: Consumers became more informed about the benefits of organic farming and sustainability, which influenced their purchasing decisions.
• Market segmentation: There was a growth in interest in specific organic products, such as gluten-free or vegan products, reflecting a greater diversity in dietary preferences.

These trends reflect a cultural shift towards a healthier and more sustainable lifestyle in France.

Other considerations for the market for organic products in France:

• 71% of organic products consumed in France come from France.
• Among the imported products 15% come from EU countries and the other part from the rest of the world.
• 43% of imports are exotic products (bananas, cocoa, coffee, etc.) or purely Mediterranean products (olives, citrus fruits, etc.), where France does not produce or has a low production of these products.

The breakdown of sales in the market for organic products in France, by distribution channel, is as follows:

Distribution channels used

Since 2011, organic sales growth in supermarkets has been relatively weaker than in other distribution channels. In 2016, the importance of the development of sales of fruit and vegetables and grocery products in this circuit helped to maintain market share at almost 45% compared to specialised organic distribution (37%), direct sales from producer to consumer (13%) and from artisans or traders (5%).

Specialised organic distribution in France remains the most dynamic circuit of the market for organic products in France, with a growth rate of almost 24% thanks to the opening of new shops, but also due to the increase in the average basket.

Direct sales experienced slightly slower growth (+15%) due to unfavourable weather conditions for production in 2016 and strong demand for long marketing channels.

Consumption trend in the market for organic products in France in 2016

In 2016, consumption in the market for organic products in France experienced remarkable growth. The French showed a growing interest in organic food, driven by an increased awareness of health, environment and product quality.

It is estimated that the market for organic products in France reached approximately 7.5 billion euros in sales, which represents a significant increase compared to previous years. The most consumed products included fruit and vegetables, dairy, and bakery products. In addition, supermarkets and specialised shops started to offer a wider range of organic products, making them more easily accessible to consumers.

This increase in consumption also reflected a broader trend in Europe towards sustainability and organic farming.

If you have further questions or need specific information, don’t hesitate to ask! We can be your Export Manager to push your sales abroad.

Barcelona Export has formed an export group in industrial subcontracting to France made up of 4 complementary companies to address the industrial subcontracting market. The neighbouring market, France, is one of the biggest importers of industrial subcontracting services for our companies. The difference in labour costs and the high technical qualification of our companies, together with a privileged geographical position, favours trade in these services.

What is an export group in industrial subcontracting to France?

An export group in industrial subcontracting is a group of companies or producers in the metal sector that join together to facilitate and promote the export of their products or services to France. By working together, they can share resources, knowledge and strategies, allowing them to access France more efficiently. In addition, they often collaborate on aspects such as logistics, marketing and negotiating with foreign buyers. In short, it is a way to strengthen competitiveness and increase business opportunities in the global arena.

Advantages of the export group in industrial subcontracting to France

The most notable advantages are:

• Faster market prospecting or market penetration.
• Consolidates a more attractive offer for the buyer
• It favours synergies between its components
• Lower prospecting costs, which are shared.
• It provides travelling companions in the internationalisation process.

Characteristics of the export group in industrial subcontracting to France

The export group in industrial subcontracting has the following characteristics:

• Formed by 4 complementary metal companies.
• Each one maintains its own legal personality
• Targeting the same sectors
• Sharing prospecting costs
• Aiming to open the same market or country
• Sharing a group manager acting and prospecting on their behalf.
• It is a programme that lasts a minimum of 12 months.

The most common metal industrial subcontracting activities that can be forming the export group in industrial subcontracting to France

In the metal industry, subcontracting activities are quite common and can vary widely depending on the specific needs of companies.

Here are some of the most common metal industrial subcontracting activities:

• Machining: This includes processes like turning, milling, drilling, and grinding to create precise metal parts and components.
• Welding: Subcontractors often provide welding services to join metal parts together, using various techniques such as MIG, TIG, or arc welding.
• Sheet Metal Fabrication: This involves cutting, bending, and assembling metal sheets into finished products or components, often used in HVAC, automotive, and construction industries.
• Casting: Subcontractors may handle the casting of metal parts, where molten metal is poured into molds to create specific shapes.
• Stamping: This process involves using dies to cut or shape metal sheets into desired forms, commonly used for producing high volumes of parts.
• Surface Treatment: Activities like plating, anodizing, or powder coating are often subcontracted to enhance the durability and appearance of metal products.
• Assembly: Some companies subcontract the assembly of complex metal products, allowing them to focus on design and engineering.
• Quality Control and Testing: Subcontractors may also provide inspection and testing services to ensure that metal components meet industry standards and specifications.

These activities help companies optimize their production processes, reduce costs, and improve product quality.

Components of the export group in industrial subcontracting to France

Our industrial subcontracting export group is made up of 4 complementary companies:

• Automotive parts stamper whose customers are TIER1. An automotive parts stamper working with TIER 1 customers specialises in the manufacture of metal components that are essential for vehicle production. TIER 1 customers are direct suppliers to automotive manufacturers (OEMs) and often require high quality and precision parts, as these are integrated directly into the vehicles.
• Machining of small and medium series metal parts (milling and lathe). A small and medium series metal machinist using milling machines and lathes specialises in the manufacture of high quality and precise components for various industrial applications.
• Machinist of parts made of all types of plastics.
• Industrial sheet metal fabrication with complex welding and powder and liquid painting processes.

Type of functions of the export cluster manager for the next 12 months, for the export group in industrial subcontracting to France

The companies are members of the Centrem cluster, which convenes them for an initial meeting to start the project. The manager will have an email address or for each of the companies that make up the group in order to prospect on their behalf through it. The manager will therefore perform the functions of his outsourced export department by searching for commercial agents, distributors or end customers. Negotiations of international contracts, whether representation or distribution contracts, are carried out jointly with each company, and the quotations requested by customers who require tailor-made products are processed and translated.

A quarterly meeting is held at the cluster headquarters to discuss the progress of the project and to allow companies to ask any questions they may have and exchange experiences with their fellow cluster members. On a monthly basis, each cluster member receives follow-up reports on their international business prospecting from the cluster manager.

If you wish to know more about our export groups do not hesitate to contact us, please.