The Winner of the Aubert & Duval INDUSTRIE Prize

Historical pillar of Ariège, the Aubert & Duval company, bought in 2023 by a Franco-European consortium, embodies the marriage between industrial tradition and technological innovation. With major investments on its Pamiers site, it is part of a process of modernization and decarbonization, while remaining a key player in the local economy.

For more than two centuries, Aubert & Duval has been a key player in cutting-edge metallurgy. Bought in 2023 by a trio of industry heavyweights — Airbus, Safran and Tikehau Capital — the company has been able to secure its future while strengthening its strategic role in the aeronautics, defense and energy and the military.

Specializing in the development and transformation of high-tech metals, it produces materials in various forms: powders, bars, billets or forgings, for the world’s largest clients. “This acquisition made it possible to secure national and international customers, while guaranteeing the sustainability of our activities,” explains Lionel Guimbard, director of the Pamiers factory.

Employing 1,160 people, the Pamiers site is the largest private employer in Ariège. It brings together a diversity of professions, from metallurgy to research and development, including production and support functions, offering a wide range of professional opportunities in the department.

An investment plan for the future

With a colossal investment of 170 million euros over three years, Aubert & Duval is modernizing its production tools to meet the challenges of tomorrow. Among the flagship projects is the conversion of gas heat treatment lines into new electrical installations. “These initiatives aim to reduce our consumption of fossil energy and decarbonize our operations,” explains Lionel Guimbard. This new equipment should be operational by the end of 2024.

Another emblematic project concerns the reconstruction of a surface treatment factory, destroyed by a fire two years ago. Located in the Gabriella 2 business park, this installation will benefit from active support from local and regional partners, including the prefecture and the community of municipalities. “This project will allow us to relocate part of our activities and minimize the environmental impact of our operations,” adds the director. Finally, the installation of a 6,000-ton press, representing an investment of 70 million euros, marks a major step forward. Intended to replace a century-old machine, this new technology will offer the company increased capacity to produce the materials of tomorrow in collaboration with Safran.

A strong commitment to the territory

Beyond its industrial projects, Aubert & Duval invests in local life through its foundation. In 2024, it will support cultural and educational initiatives, such as the Maison des Jeunes et de la Culture (MJC) in Pamiers and school projects linked to the industry. “These actions strengthen our link with the territory and underline our desire to contribute to its development,” concludes Lionel Guimbard.