DEMGY at BIG Bpifrance: a strategic vision for French industry
At the BIG Bpifrance event, Pierre-Jean Leduc, president of DEMGY Group and the Polyvia plastics industry union, gave a powerful testimony on the central role of subcontracting companies in the French industrial ecosystem.
He pointed out that 90% of plastics companies in France are subcontractors, a finding that also applies to the mechanical engineering and electronics sectors. These companies, which have historically focused on large national contractors, must now rethink their model in the face of market globalization.
Internationalization: a constraint turned into an opportunity
Faced with the relocation of large groups, Pierre-Jean Leduc turned a constraint into a strategic lever. By developing DEMGY internationally (Germany, United States, Romania, etc.), the company has become a global player in the manufacture of plastic and composite parts for aircraft interiors.
"What was once a constraint has become an opportunity. The scope of possibilities expands as soon as you go international."
This strategy has enabled DEMGY to become a strategic supplier for groups such as Safran and Collins, and to bring tenders back to France.
French know-how and moving upmarket
The president of DEMGY emphasizes the need to increase added value in order to remain competitive. Low-value products will always be produced in low-cost countries. On the other hand, France has a wealth of technological expertise in plastics, composites, foundry work, and electronics.
«In Romania and the United States, they are no better than us. Our expertise is recognized.»
Reindustrialization: rebuilding an ecosystem
The reindustrialization of France cannot happen without a solid network of subcontractors. Conversely, these subcontractors need large groups in order to develop. One cannot exist without the other.
"There will be no reindustrialization without subcontractors. And no subcontractors without large corporations."
A message of optimism and action
The speech concluded with a call for boldness and openness:
"If it's possible for DEMGY, it's possible for you. Go for it. The world is yours."
BIG Bpifrance: Europe's largest business gathering
Organized by Bpifrance, the BIG (Bpifrance Inno Génération) event has become Europe's largest business gathering in just ten years. Every year, it brings together thousands of entrepreneurs, manufacturers, investors, and public decision-makers to discuss issues such as innovation, energy transition, industrial sovereignty, and business financing.
BIG is a place for strategic exchanges, inspiring conferences, and meetings between players in the real economy. The 2025 edition marks a historic year for Bpifrance, with more than €63 billion in investments and nearly 600,000 companies supported since its creation.