This first episode looks back at the origins of an extraordinary family, entrepreneurial, and human adventure. It all began in 1964 with a bold idea: selling materials handling equipment to businesses through a catalogue.

On April 25, 1966, that morning, André Guichard had just founded Manutan.

Very quickly, he brought his son Jean-Pierre into this emerging venture.

Jean-Pierre Guichard : “The next step was to put together our first catalogue. It wasn’t easy, actually. People didn’t understand what we were trying to do. Those were the early days.”

Success grew. After expanding internationally and going public, it was time for succession: although at 23, Xavier Guichard had no intention of joining Manutan, he would dive into the deep end at 35 by becoming the Group’s CEO.

Xavier Guichard: “It was like being thrown into the deep end of the swimming pool. Once you’re in, you learn to swim. Meeting suppliers, meeting the teams, taking on projects and responsibilities, making mistakes – not too many, but a few all the same. That’s important too, because that’s how you learn.”

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Xavier Guichard: “I’m a curious person, and I enjoy building things.”

Xavier’s entry into Manutan was gradual: he started in management, then moved into international operations – learning the ropes, finding his feet, and proving himself. Over the years, Xavier learned and developed his own style. But discretion has marked every step of his journey. So who is Xavier Guichard?

Xavier Guichard: “I like to think of my role as that of an architect. What I’m trying to build is a company that is solid, one that will stand the test of time. I’m kind by nature, but at the same time, I never give up, because I’m determined and I know where I want to go.”

At Manutan, this vision is not merely theoretical. It has become a way of moving forward – embracing change, but without breaking with the past. Building step by step.

Today, Manutan has become a benchmark in the distribution of equipment for businesses and public-sector organisations. As a European group, it offers a wide range of products, relies on an efficient logistics network, and supports its customers across many countries. This model has been built over time and continues to evolve to adapt to new ways of working.

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The world of 2026 is in the midst of profound change. AI is becoming mainstream, peace is becoming more fragile, and climate, trade and lifestyles are all changing faster than ever before. So, in this world in motion, what will the Manutan Group look like in 10 years’ time? Will the family’s ambitions still have space to grow? The suspense is palpable. Sit back and relax – here’s the next instalment of the story.

Xavier Guichard: “A lot of people are thinking, ‘I don’t understand this new world’. But I think we do understand this world. I think we know where we want to go within it, and that means there will be opportunities.”

Pierre-Olivier Brial: “We have to continue to adapt to the situation on the ground, to identify each other’s needs and ideas. And our role is to act as the link between them, to facilitate and offer solutions to our customers. I think that is truly in our DNA, and we’re evolving the way we play that role.”

All the experts agree: over the next 10 years, the world will change faster than it has over the last 30. Things are set to change, but we can sense that Manutan is ready.

Hébergé par Ausha. Visitez ausha.co/politique-de-confidentialite pour plus d'informations.