Birth of Décor Alliance, merger of Grassin Décors and Solmur

"The merger of our companies, both specialized in the professional distribution of paints and floor and wall coverings, was a natural fit," says Franck Martin, CEO of Solmur. "We share common values ​​and beliefs, and we belong to the same group: Udirev. Furthermore, in paint and tools, our companies are active members of the SOCODA purchasing center and, for example, distribute Saint-Luc paint under a brand name."

"Coming together to join forces is, in our view, the best way to strengthen our growth while remaining independent," explains Bruno Grassin, CEO of Grassin Décors. "This merger, which is a first in our sector, can be seen as an alternative for independent distributors faced with the transfer of their business."

"The geographical areas covered by Grassin Décors and Solmur are perfectly complementary. Décor Alliance will therefore be present in Poitou-Charentes, the Centre and Pays de Loire regions, as well as in Normandy and as far as Brittany," adds Claude Chevallier, President of Udirev.

GRASSIN DECORS

· 15 agencies specializing in paints and decorative products

· Date of creation: 1909 - member of Udirev since 1999

· 155 employees including 25 in sales and 1 in prescription

· Main customers: craftsmen and painting companies.

· 15 departments covered

Turnover in 2010: €30

- 41% Painting

- 23% Other products (materials, tools, hardware, glass products)

- 25% Soils

- 11% Walls and wallpapers

SOLMUR

· 15 multi-product agencies

· Date of creation: 1957 - member of Udirev since 1964

· 140 employees including 26 in sales and 2 in prescription

· Main customers: artisans, businesses and traders

· 10 departments covered

·         www.solmur.fr

Turnover in 2010: €35

- 27% Paintings

- 44% Soils

- 13% Walls and wallpapers

- 16% Other products (tools, glues and accessories)