“The transformation has accelerated over the last twenty years with the development of pet stores. We have invested a lot in R&D to create new ranges”explains Matthieu Haurit, the general director of this ETI of 500 employees, including 300 in France, which markets four own brands (Zolux, Francodex, Saint-Bernard and Hopi), others for partners.
A company with a mission, the French leader in pet products has made CSR a pillar of its commercial development. He was the first to support the YouCare association, responsible for the “1% for animals” label, to which he donates 1% of the amount of his sales.
Realizing more than 90% of its turnover in Europe and present in around forty countries, Zolux reduces its carbon footprint thanks to European manufacturing, unlike its competitors who rely mainly on Chinese production, particularly in terms of cat trees and scratching posts.
The company relies on three production sites in France, the Czech Republic and Tunisia, and three commercial subsidiaries in Poland, Italy and Spain. “As a mission-driven company, we are accountable», recalls Matthieu Haurit.
A project for a new head office put on hold
Before considering other developments, Zolux must digest its latest investments, including the acquisition in May 2023 of the Czech factory and the creation of the Spanish subsidiary. The transformation of the Alcatel wasteland in Saintes into a factory, storage site and head office has been put on hold. “We acquired the site, but the price of construction materials means that the project is no longer on the agenda», concludes the manager.
You are reading an article from L’Usine Nouvelle 3729 – April 2024
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