Groupe SMSM: the merger of two family companies

Éva Escandon has managed Groupe SMSM since 2007. This company manufactures boiler equipment and complex mechanical welded assemblies from their design to their implementation on industrial sites and maintenance. The Group was formed as the result of a merger in 2001 of two family companies, the SMSM (Société Maritime de Soudure et de Montage)‚ founded in 1976 by César Escandon; and the SMFI (Société Mécanique Foulon Industries), founded in 1964. Éva Escandon describes the pros and cons of an SME (small and medium-sized enterprise) in this very traditional sector. She also explains how she had to fight to succeed her father. As well as the responsibilities which she holds in the company, her convictions have pushed her to make commitments in favour of recruiting young people and especially girls in the industry, increasing the number of female mandates in chambers of commerce, and creating more places for women at the head of companies and in the economy.