#France #HBI #Polycor #Bertrand Iribarren #Massangis

Polycor and HBI's Strategic Move in the French Market

In a significant development for the natural stone industry, Polycor Inc. has announced that it has entered into exclusive negotiations with HBI, the parent company of Iribarren Pierres Naturelles, regarding the potential acquisition of Polycor France Holding SAS. This decision follows a solid acquisition proposal from HBI, and it underscores the growing interest and consolidation within the French natural stone market.

Polycor, a key player in the stone production sector, operates through its subsidiaries, including Polycor France and Rocamat. The company is recognized as the largest producer of natural stone in France, providing essential materials for construction and various architectural projects. Given the robust industrial and financial offer extended by HBI, Polycor is eager to move forward in discussions to finalize the sale subject to the consultation process involving employee representation at Rocamat.

Shifting Focus to North America

Anthony Pagano, the CEO of Polycor, expressed enthusiasm about the potential transfer of their historically significant assets in France to HBI. He remarked, “We would be happy to transfer the ownership of our unique and historically important assets in France to HBI and its founder Bertrand Iribarren, who has extensive experience in the natural stone industry in France. This divestiture enables Polycor to intensify our focus on North America, where we uncover numerous growth opportunities, both organically and through acquisitions.”

This strategic pivot away from France will allow Polycor to streamline its operations and concentrate its resources on expanding its footprint in North America, further solidifying its position as a leader in natural stone production.

HBI's Commitment to Excellence

On the other hand, Bertrand Iribarren, managing director of HBI, expressed his gratitude for being entrusted with the opportunity to acquire Polycor’s French operations. He stated, “We are honored to have reached an exclusive agreement with Polycor and appreciate the trust placed in us by Polycor's management. This acquisition will help preserve a wealth of expertise, promote local resources, and prepare for a sustainable and responsible future for the sector.” HBI’s strong heritage and commitment to quality, sustainability, and excellence position it as a vital player to continue the legacy of natural stone in France. HBI has over 30 years of experience in this field, showcasing a long-standing family tradition dedicated to craftsmanship and innovation.

About Polycor and HBI

Polycor, founded in 1987 in Quebec, Canada, is recognized globally as a leader in the natural stone industry. With over 1,000 employees across Canada, the United States, and France, Polycor has established an impressive reputation that stems from its historical work with stone on municipal, commercial, and residential projects.

HBI, reflecting the Iribarren family’s commitment to the natural stone trade, has been a symbol of excellence for over three decades. The company embodies a strong familial history, craftsmanship, and an unwavering dedication to quality, sustainability, and elegance, making it a pivotal player in the French stone industry.

With the anticipated completion of the acquisition in the fourth quarter of 2025, both companies seem on track to usher in a new era of growth and sustainability in the natural stone market. This move marks a critical juncture for Polycor as it needs to redefine its strategy and enhance its market position while ensuring that the legacy of its French operations is upheld by HBI.