The French aeronautics sector has the wind in its sails
The French aeronautics sector has the wind in its sails
The French aeronautics sector is doing very well in spite of the crisis. This flagship sector of the economy is continuing to grow, proof of the solidity of its structures and the dynamism of its projects.
As France’s top exporter (80% of the sector’s turnover), the French aerospace industry saw its activities hold firm in spite of the turbulence forecast since the beginning of the economic crisis. It should be noted that this industry is not limited just to aircraft manufacturers but covers a range of professions and skills, including component manufacturers, defence and helicopters.
French companies, both aircraft manufacturers and component manufacturers, have built up a recognised and highly regarded competence over time. The Zodiac company, for example, which specialises in supplying aircraft galleys and equipment, also designs and supplies onboard safety equipment such as cabin fittings, seat belts and escape chutes. This rapidly expanding company has just taken over the German company Sell, its third acquisition in three months. Zodiac already employs 20,000 people worldwide, with three quarters of its workforce outside France and 93 production sites, no fewer than 46 of them in Europe and 39 in North America. With the acquisition of Sell (turnover: 179 million euros), Zodiac has added a further 1,270 employees to its total.
More information : Actualités de France n°20 july 2010