The Briefing Paris rallies to revive local industry as Duralex raises millions in nationwide ‘Made in France’ comeback
Nov 6, 2025
Join Simon Bouvier, Monocle's Paris bureau chief, and Bloomberg journalist Ewan Potts as they dive into France's industrial renaissance. Simon highlights the remarkable €16m crowdfunding success of Duralex, revealing its unique employee-led financing approach. They explore the broader momentum behind the 'buy French' movement and discuss new policies aimed at boosting local industry. Ewan brings insight into market dynamics, assessing the sustainability of recent tech stock rallies and green investments. A compelling conversation on innovation and national pride!
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Employees Buy Back Duralex
- Duralex, maker of the Picardie tempered glass, was rescued by employees after years of mismanagement and multiple administrations.
- The company launched a public fundraising aiming for €5m but raised €20m in 48 hours from citizens who want the brand to survive.
Emotion And Returns Drove Crowdfunding
- Public pledges combined emotion with financial return expectations, not pure charity, driving the surge of investments into Duralex.
- Investors expect about an 8% return and see the plan and product as credible reasons to back the company.
Use Employee Ownership To Raise Capital
- When banks and traditional lenders close doors due to past bankruptcies, consider employee ownership and public fundraising as alternative capital routes.
- Use strong local brand recognition and clear plans to attract citizen-investors and secure orders.