Haut-Jura. This plastics valley company sees a green future

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Since his created in 1959the Simon company, initially based in Saint-Lupicin and today established in Chassal Molinges on a 3600m2 site, continues toevolve with the times. Founded by the grandfather of Kevin Trible, current directorit began by manufacturing special machines before specialize in mussels for the plastics industry during the 1990s.

Today, this Upper Jura mold maker is a key player in the sector since the takeover of the company by Kevin Trible, and its acquisition in 2022 by the Luxembourg group United Caps. Within this group of 230 employees in the Jura – “representing 30% of the total workforce and 80% of the gray matter” – Simon must meet two major challenges: reduce the carbon footprint of the plastics industry on its scale andattract new talents in a sector under tension.

Reduce carbon footprint

With certification Green Energy“very popular in the plastics sector” underlines Kevin Trible, the group's companies are committed to offset their carbon emissions by one responsible energy consumptionpartly produced by solar panels. “Although the Simon site is not ideally placed to install photovoltaic panels due to limited sunlight, this group strategy intends to mark a turning point for an industry often criticized for its environmental impact,” insists Kevin Trible. The mold maker Simon also relies on the sustainability of its molds, working on solutions to extend their lifespan and reduce energy needs.

Focus on the employer brand

Despite the “plastic bashing” and the difficulties in the sectorChassal Molinges' company displays impressive results. “I took over the company in 2009. In 2012, we had five employees and a turnover of 400,000 euros. Today we have 35 employees with 4.5 million euros in turnover“, explains the manager.

The job market in the plastics industry remains tense, particularly for technical professions. For attract younger generationsSimon is banking on his employer brand with a proactive and local approach : presentation of careers in high schoolsmethods of recruitment by simulation in collaboration with France Travail, and wide openness to internships and work-study programs. The company also relies on innovative actions for well-being at work : free hours, no time clock, sports classes on Thursday lunchtime, etc.

Change perceptions

Far from alarmist speeches on thebrain drain, particularly towards Switzerlandthe mold maker observes that there are people aged 20 to 50 in the local area who wish to be trained without leaving. According to Kevin Trible, the skills shortage is exacerbated by theaging image of professions of the industry. “Young people still perceive the mold industry as noisy and messy, but digital technology has completely transformed our practices. It's necessary restore the image of these technical and precision professions“, concludes the manager.

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