The overall cost price remains essential
Looking Back on the Acquisition of SEICO by COFIDUR
Why did you acquire Seico specifically?
Laurent Dupoiron: Based on our Ambitions 2025 roadmap, we realized we had certifications and loyal customers, but lacked agility in accessing new markets. We had been seeking a company to acquire, and Seico’s situation aligned perfectly. The deal was finalized on July 12.
Do you plan to keep Joyeuse, the start-up acquired by Seico in 2023?
Laurent Dupoiron: Start-ups were not previously our focus due to structural limitations. Seico had €16M revenue from 100 clients, we had €75M from 65. We’ll keep Joyeuse and aim to grow it.
Is Cofidur now active in new sectors?
Laurent Dupoiron: Yes, we’re seeing projects in smart buildings, agriculture, and energy storage. We always aim to find new markets.
Do you plan to acquire other companies, even abroad?
Laurent Dupoiron: Most clients are French, but we serve some in Switzerland, Germany, and Belgium. We’re open to acquisitions in Belgium, the Netherlands, Italy, and Portugal.
What is your revenue target for this year?
Laurent Dupoiron: With Seico included, we aim for €100M. Aerospace and defense are doing well, industry is slower. We expect a rebound in H2, but remain cautious.
What about the component shortage and stock levels?
Laurent Dupoiron: Some clients are redesigning PCBs to reduce dependency. Stock issues have improved, prices remain high but stable. Global demand is easing, helping the situation.
Are you installing solar panels to reduce energy costs?
Laurent Dupoiron: Work in Périgueux is nearly done, Laval starts this fall.
How is your Tunisian facility doing?
Laurent Dupoiron: Our Tunis partner Cofitel has lower costs and strong certifications. We aim to expand activity there.
Is recruitment a challenge for Cofidur as well?
Laurent Dupoiron: It’s not easy, but manageable.
Gilles Delaunay: Finding technical workers is difficult. We work with schools and deploy apprenticeship programs widely. Hiring engineers is easier.
Could the repair activity sold in 2018 make a return?
Laurent Dupoiron: Not in our strategic plan. We provide after-sales and reconditioning for B2B, but not consumer-level service.
