At the start of spring 2017, Alp’erbo has reached the milestone of its 25th birthday. Launching our business around lavender on 1st April 1992 happened by accident. Yet starting on a 1st April, without any money nor much preparation, was somehow a nod to chance – and a way of not taking the initiative too seriously. Nevertheless, if I had been asked to sign a 25 years lease at the time I would have happily done it!
So, in this particular moment I would like to express my gratitude to everyone who trusted me from the beginning. You highly contributed to my success. Also, I have a special thought for Emile Martineau, Hubert et Claude Popée, my faithful companions from the start but who alas are no longer there.
Despite this long experience, Alp’erbo still today remains an artisanal micro-company. Yet more than two thirds of our turnover is generated internationally. This is one of our main achievements.
Lavender, still at the core of our activity
To date, lavender-based products (lavender and lavandin bunches, flowers and essential oils) still represents more that 50% of our activity. But our diversification towards herbal products and essential oils, both in organic and conventional agriculture, has started to bear fruit. This is our daily work as well as the challenge that awaits us in the coming years.
Thank you for your confidence!