Le Liège Gascon: An association that promotes cork in the South-West

Founded in 2005, the association The Liège Gascon was created thanks to the initiative of several cork manufacturers located in Landes, Lot-et-Garonne and Gironde. At a time when cork is mainly imported from the Iberian Peninsula, this association has set itself the mission of revitalizing local cork production by putting the region's cork groves back into operation, thus promoting a circular and local economy.

Competition with traditional cork producing countries, such as Portugal, Spain, and the countries of the Mediterranean basin, remains a major challenge. However, the association benefits from the support of communities, in particular the region and the department of Landes, as well as several communities of municipalities. This aid allows Liège Gascon to promote local know-how and strengthen its competitiveness.

The association positions itself as a bridge between the forest and industrialists. Products vary from agglomerated cork, a crushed material used for projects requiring less premium qualities, to premium cork, intended primarily for the production of cork stoppers.

In almost twenty years, production has doubled, going from 10 tonnes in 2005 to 22 tonnes in 2024, thus illustrating the rise of Liège Gascon. The association is also considering new ways of promoting raw cork that cannot be used in cork making. It is exploring partnerships with local authorities to use the material in play areas or mulch for green spaces, with the aim of reducing waste and maximizing the use of cork in the region.