New buildings for Atout Bois 66
The company Atout Bois 66, a specialist in boat fittings and decks, moved to new premises at the end of September 2020. Ideally located, the new building allows it to almost quadruple its working surface. " We had about 100 m² before, while the new premises are 300 m² on the ground, with an additional mezzanine of 108 m². We really have more space for good working conditions. In addition, the plot is the first one at the entrance of the nautical pole of Canet-en-Roussillon, which gives a good visibility "says Laurent Ricard, Managing Director of the company.
Delayed hiring
Created 11 years ago, the company currently employs 3 people. As part of the expansion, its manager was considering hiring, but the uncertainty linked to the Covid-19 crisis delayed his decision. " I wanted to hire an apprentice and a workshop manager to relieve myself a little and train young people, but I'm waiting a little, because the schedule is not fixed. We are all feeling a drop in activity at the moment. It takes at least 1 or 2 large projects a year to function well "regrets the manager. Atout Bois works mainly for private individuals and between 20 and 30% for professional building sites.
" With more space, we will start to look at calls for tenders; we will diversify, develop and design furniture, make innovations, design furniture by working on lacquers and varnishes... There are no small customers. We work with everyone " insists Laurent Ricard. The company's carpenters work with teak, but also with many different types of wood and composite materials such as Corian, for kitchen and bathroom fittings.
The wintering of boats to finance the building
The vast dock around Atout Bois' new buildings will allow the company to develop its wintering and boat storage activities. It will also be used for outdoor work on boats. " This is important for the financing of the investment, which exceeds 500,000 euros. The promenade also offers a good exposure for new boats with good visibility "concludes Laurent Ricard.
