The Resilience of ‘Made in France’: How Record France is Shock Absorbing Industry Change
While global supply chains grapple with disruption and the rise of low-cost manufacturing, a fourth-generation family business in Antibes, France, is proving that localized expertise, rapid prototyping, and a commitment to quality can not only survive but thrive. Record France, a specialist in shock absorbers with €8.5 million in annual turnover, isn’t just building components; it’s building a model for resilient manufacturing in a rapidly evolving world.
From Automotive Roots to Diversified Growth
Record France’s story began in 1957, born from a patented technology for automotive shock absorbers developed by Roland Cudon. Today, the company, still led by the Cudon family – Anne-Marie Meyer-Warnod (board president), Blandine Berrettoni (operational director), and Marie-Aude Meyer-Warnod (technical director) – serves a diverse range of industries. While original equipment manufacturing (OEM) accounts for over a third of their business, the company is strategically expanding its presence in the spare parts market, a sector increasingly challenged by competition from China. This diversification, coupled with a strong export focus – with Morocco and Chile emerging as key markets in 2024 – is proving crucial for sustained growth.
The Power of Proximity and Small-Batch Manufacturing
In an era of just-in-time delivery and globalized sourcing, Record France is deliberately betting on proximity. All of their suppliers are located within 1,000 km, fostering strong relationships and reducing logistical vulnerabilities. This localized approach allows them to excel in creating small and medium-sized production runs – a capability that larger manufacturers often struggle to match. “We create prototypes with our customers and test them to the last adjustments before industrialization,” explains Blandine Berrettoni. This collaborative prototyping process, combined with their manufacturing agility, is opening doors to new subcontracting opportunities across France and Europe.
Expanding Beyond Automotive: A Subcontracting Opportunity
Record France’s expertise isn’t limited to the automotive sector. Their ability to rapidly develop and manufacture specialized shock absorbers is attracting interest from industries requiring precision damping solutions, such as aerospace, robotics, and even medical equipment. This expansion into new sectors represents a significant growth opportunity, leveraging their existing capabilities and minimizing reliance on a single industry. The company’s commitment to quality and responsiveness is a key differentiator in these demanding markets.
The Family Council: A Fast Track to Decision-Making
Maintaining a nimble and responsive operation is also facilitated by the company’s unique governance structure. Decisions are made through a family council, ensuring swift and unified action. “Everyone is expressed and getting involved. The process is very fast,” Berrettoni notes. This streamlined decision-making process is a significant advantage in a fast-paced business environment, allowing Record France to quickly adapt to changing market conditions and customer needs.
Women in Manufacturing: Breaking Barriers
The leadership at Record France also reflects a changing landscape within the manufacturing sector. With Blandine Berrettoni and Marie-Aude Meyer-Warnod at the helm, the company demonstrates a commitment to gender diversity. Berrettoni observes, “Today, a woman in the automobile surprises less than before,” highlighting a positive shift in industry perceptions and opportunities. This representation is not only empowering but also brings diverse perspectives and skillsets to the table, fostering innovation and problem-solving.
The Future of Manufacturing: Resilience and Specialization
Record France’s success isn’t simply about manufacturing shock absorbers; it’s about building a resilient business model for the 21st century. Their focus on localized supply chains, rapid prototyping, and specialized manufacturing positions them well to navigate future disruptions and capitalize on emerging opportunities. As global economic uncertainties continue and the demand for customized solutions grows, companies like Record France – those that prioritize agility, quality, and strong customer relationships – are poised to lead the way. The ‘Made in France’ label isn’t just a marketing advantage; it’s a symbol of reliability and a commitment to long-term value.
What strategies are you implementing to build resilience into your supply chain? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
