It was in 2011, 10 years ago, that Guy VÊPRES first raised the idea of handing over the company to Cédric MERCIER. The following year, in 2012, they agreed on a step-by-step process over several years. An initial symbolic transfer of shares sealed the agreement in principle.

Put to the test?

Cédric MERCIER joined VÊPRES in 1994 as a draughtsman. He quickly made a name for himself through his dedication and willingness to take on projects with conviction. Little by little, Guy VÊPRES placed its trust in him, offering him increasingly varied assignments. Cédric MERCIER took part in the management of one of the company's subsidiaries, supervised the design office, developed inventory management software and helped reorganize the accounting department.

Following the economic crisis in 2008, the company found itself in a very difficult situation. It was at this point that Cédric MERCIER became Guy's right-hand man VÊPRES, devoting all his energy to helping the company. It was also at this time that his entrepreneurial spirit was fully revealed, as he fully embraced Guy VÊPRES 's vision of creating a new "ensemblier" business line (managing projects from A to Z, from design to delivery). By dint of hard work and self-sacrifice, the company's accounts were rapidly turned around, and the job protection procedure was even shortened. Since then, Cédric MERCIER has been a solid General Manager alongside the Chairman, in direct contact with all the company's strategic issues - sales, HR and finance - and on the road to global management of the business.

Confidence for a successful handover

Founded in 1962 by Francis VÊPRES, the eponymous company has been in the family for two generations. Guy VÊPRES really wanted to pass it on to a manager who would preserve its "family" culture and values, for employees, customers and suppliers alike. The takeover process with Cédric MERCIER therefore lasted 10 years! A time which enabled a gradual transfer of shares and responsibilities, in a climate of mutual trust and with a great deal of transparency towards the teams.

During these years, the company continued to grow, and Guy VÊPRES 's aim was to hand over a profitable business with a bright future, while enabling Cédric MERCIER to acquire it without putting himself personally at risk. This is the result of a 25-year collaboration that goes beyond professional complicity. Nothing would have been possible without a sincere friendship and a real community of values.

New chairman, new retiree (soon)!

On February 1, Cédric MERCIER took over 100% ownership of the company, becoming its new Chairman. Guy VÊPRES will accompany Cédric MERCIER for a few months before retiring in April 2022, exactly as planned 10 years ago.

For employees, customers and suppliers alike, Guy VÊPRES and Cédric MERCIER are delighted to have successfully handed over a company in great shape, with a radiant future.

Cédric MERCIER and Guy VÊPRES would like to extend their warmest thanks to the many people who helped make this challenge a success!

Photo (from left to right) : Francis Vêpres, Guy Vêpres, Cédric Mercier.