A rope factory with a family dimension
Tanguy Fortin took over the reins of the Cousin company in September 2022. If this is a new professional field for the entrepreneur, he knows the nautical environment and intends to build on the knowledge acquired by the rope factory. "Cousin had remained in the same family hands since 1848. I took it over in September 2022, but I'm keeping a family-type, long-term vision. We're not a fund and we're going to continue what Cousin does very well. I used to be in agribusiness, but I've always been an avid sailor and kiteboarder."
Develop water sports
The nautical sector represents 20 to 25% of the activity of Cousin Trestec, a company that employs 70 people in the north of France, for a turnover of 14 Meuros, with a good growth. Its new manager is optimistic about its continuation. "The nautical industry is experiencing strong growth, as we develop the range and gain market share. Many competitors trust us. We are reaping the fruits of many years of work. There is a big capital of experience and loyal employees. We will continue to make efforts with future recruitments, especially for the sales force. We need to capitalize on a 175-year-old brand."
A Rope to Rope recycling logic
Among the major projects of the Cousin rope factory, the work on the ecological transition of ropes and their recyclability is at the top of the pile, confides Tanguy Fortin, who concludes by detailing the subjects in progress. "The big projects to be seen revolve around the CSR approach, which needs to be structured. A carbon footprint calculation is underway, to be able to set objectives. We have already started to work on recycled polyester mooring lines, with the aim of developing collection points to bring circularity to the rope, a "Rope to Rope" concept. The Cousin group, with Cousin Composites, has the know-how in spinning and the capacity to remake polyester fibers in-house. The question of fibers with material alloys is more complex today. I am convinced that it is a necessity to make this shift in areas like ours with a strong link to nature."
