Vendée Globe: the sailing race as a showcase for composite innovation

The start of the Vendée Globe will take place on the 10th of November. The prestigious sailing race will be an opportunity to showcase Atlantic France’s expertise in composite materials, and an event has been organised for internationally-owned companies.

The Vendée Globe is a solo, non-stop, and unassisted sailing race around the world. Created in 1989, the race has grown into an internationally recognised challenge, where only the most innovative boats and skilful skippers can hope to succeed. 

Atlantic France is a leader in shipbuilding, particularly thanks to Chantiers de l’Atlantique which has built four of the ten largest cruise ships in the world. It is also a key player in the sailing boat industry, being home to the Beneteau Group, a world leader in pleasure boating.

Among the innovations used by these industries, composite materials have become essential, offering both durability and performance to withstand extreme conditions. Atlantic France has therefore played a pioneering role in this field and the Vendée Globe serves as an opportunity to showcase the expertise of local players.

Sustainability and composite materials

Many of the boats used in the Vendée Globe are made with composites, allowing for lightweight design and excellent resistance to harsh conditions. Atlantic France skipper Armel Tripon has even teamed up with Airbus to create a race sailing boat with end-of-life carbon fiber and composite remnants, aiming to recycle waste from the aeronautics sector.

Composite materials have long posed a challenge when it comes to end-of-life management. Atlantic France has prioritised sustainability and became a hotbed for circular innovation, attracting international companies in this field such as Composite Recycling.

Atlantic France is home to the first Composite Recycling subsidiary

The innovative Swiss startup set up its first European subsidiary in Nantes in June 2023. The decision by Composite Recycling to establish itself in the region was no coincidence: Atlantic France offers a dynamic ecosystem that is conducive to research and development in the field of composites. 

The benefits of this company’s presence extend beyond its environmental impact. Its operations have contributed to local job creations, technological advancements, and the region’s positioning as a leader in composite recycling.

We’ve been very impressed by the proactiveness and professionalism of the local representatives we’ve worked with. The region’s determination to create a complete composites recycling industry is an essential factor in our success.

Guillaume Perben, Managing Director of Composite Recycling

International companies at the heart of innovation

The Vendée Globe not only draws attention to local expertise but also attracts a global audience, offering an ideal platform for international networking. On the 4th of November, during the Vendée Globe, we will hold the annual International Companies Solutions event at the port of Les Sables d’Olonne.

This event marks an important occasion for the more than 1,100 internationally-owned companies that have chosen to establish themselves in Atlantic France. With the Vendée Globe as a backdrop, these companies will have the opportunity to engage in discussions centred around innovation and sustainability. 

The programme includes a range of highlights, such as the return of experiences from past Vendée Globe editions and a roundtable on the challenges of balancing performance with the demands of environmental sustainability. This will also be an opportunity to take stock of international investment in France with Marie-Cécile Tardieu, Investment Managing Director of Business France.

Representatives of internationally-owned companies will then have access to the Vendée Globe Village and will be able to take part in some convivial activities, including participating in visits to the pontoons and enjoying a cocktail reception in a private VIP corner.

Are you looking to invest in a region where innovation meets sustainability? Atlantic France is the place to be. With a robust infrastructure, access to global markets, and a commitment to ecological progress, our region offers the perfect environment for your business to thrive. 

Contact us to learn more about how we can help you establish your business in Atlantic France.