History

2023

The strength of a model

The name Avril is evocative of spring returning each year, the rhythms of nature and particularly the flowering of rapeseed. Originally called Sofiprotéol, it was founded in 1983 by the oils and proteins sector to guarantee the sustainability of its outlets. True to its mission, the Group has continued to establish a bond of trust that connects all actors in the sector.

In line with its purpose “Serving the Earth”, Avril continues to support the agricultural, food and environmental sectors and transitions.

In a context of persistent uncertainty, the Group has once again demonstrated the resilience of its business model and consolidated its growth momentum. 2023 is a historic year for investment. In total, the Group invested nearly €450M in industrial investments, Sofiprotéol commitments, innovation and external growth with the acquisition of several companies, including HARi&CO, Moulin de Sarralbe and Sunbloom Proteins.

By 2023, Avril has completed the SPRING trajectory: for this fifth and final year, the SPRING index, which measures the Group’s progress in CSR, reaches a score of 5.1 out of 5, in line with the objective of progressing by one point per year.

February

In Sète, Saipol invests to modernize and diversify its activity for the decarbonation of transport and animal feed.

Sanders strengthens its presence in Alsace with the acquisition of Moulin de Sarralbe‘s animal nutrition business.

April

The Group celebrates its 40th anniversary.

Publication of 2022 results: record performance in 2022 in an unprecedented global context, confirming the resilience of the Group’s business model and the relevance of its strategy.

Avril steps up its ambitions in plant proteins with the acquisition of Sunbloom Proteins.

Oleon inaugurates Europe’s most innovative plant in Oelegem, Belgium.

May

Expur inaugurates a cogeneration plant at its Slobozia site in Romania, an investment of over €15M.

June

Oleon inaugurates its first production plant in North America, in Conroe, Texas.

Elyse Energy, Avril, Axens, Bionext and IFP Energies nouvelles announce the establishment of the BioTJet plant in the Lacq basin, a new center of excellence for sustainable fuels.

Sanders renews its €6M aid plan for breeders.