The Argos Soditic group has signed an agreement with the Steinway group for the purchase of the historical Leblanc clarinet factory in La Couture Boussey, in the Department of Eure region of France.

Student instruments

This factory produces wind instruments for students, under the brand name Buffet Crampon, in a new and independent legal form, known as the "Manufacture d’Instruments de la Couture". The Chairman of the company is Antoine Beaussant, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Buffet Crampon Group.

Considerable investment

The factory currently employs 35 individuals, trained to the highest standards in French instrumental manufacture. Additional hirings are planned for the near future to meet new production needs, and a considerable investment plan is also on the horizon.

The 'Manufacture d’Instruments de la Couture' allows the Buffet Crampon Group to pursue its industrial independence while increasing its production capacity for students’ instrumentsAntoine Beaussant

Strategy

The Buffet Crampon Group continues to pursue its strategy of development through acquisitions.

In 2006, the purchase of Besson and Antoine Courtois allowed it to expand its activity to include brass instruments, and to extend its range by launching over thirty new instruments. The purchase of this production unit, manufacturing student clarinets, bolstered the company’s strategy of autonomy three years ago, and reinforces the growth policy of the Buffet Crampon Group.

Exceptional

Antoine Beaussant emphasizes this: "The perspectives are exceptional in every way, as the site of la Couture Boussey has been the historical cradle of instrumental manufacturing since 1750.

"The savoir-faire of the master wood turners and instrument makers is carried on here, and we contribute our industrial know-how and our high standards for quality. The 'Manufacture d’Instruments de la Couture' allows the Buffet Crampon Group to pursue its industrial independence while increasing its production capacity for students’ instruments."

World wide reputation

The primary factory in Mantes, with its world-wide reputation, will continue to produce top-level and professional level instruments, and notably clarinets and oboes.

The princial shareholder of Argos-Soditic, Louis Godron added: "This new investment in the musical instruments sector reflects our commitment to building solid companies in this sector, companies which combine centuries-old know-how and growth."