Normandy’s history goes hand in hand with its present, so let’s find out what makes it so special nowadays. Innovation, tolerance, sustainable development, youth, lifestyle and more. Read all about the individual and group projects with committed and passionate Normans behind them!

Jam-packed with experiences, events and creations, Normandy tells its story with emotions!

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TELED, the Normandy method to adapt companies to energy variability

A solar-powered bakery and roaster in Normandy? Arnaud Cretot proved it could be done! The engineer used his experience to create the TELED method to help companies adapt their business to work with intermittent energy and fulfil their energy transition. Does baking bread or roasting beans using solar power in Normandy sound mad? Not really.…

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Jérémie Morizet and Clément Schapman set a deep-sea exploration record

Jérémie Morizet from Manche reached a depth of 10,803m on October 13th 2024, setting a new deep-sea diving record in France. Clément Schapman, a hydrographic surveyor from Rouen, provided support from the surface vessel as part of the project by Deep Ocean Search and InkFish. The pair shared the experience with Normandie Attractivité and discussed…

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Normandy’s manufacturing industry is committed to the future

Manufacturing plays a key role in Normandy's economy, in a land with real industrial history and its sights set on the future. With eco-friendly positive impact manufacturing projects, strong energy mix, meaningful future careers and an exciting ecosystem, it does more than just support economic growth; it's also helping to build a more sustainable world.…

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Campus Normandie Eolien: a unique training venue

Campus Normandie Eolien in Fécamp has set a benchmark among students and employees specialising in wind energy. The unique facility on the Descartes-Maupassant college campus has helped make the region's name as a land of excellence in terms of renewable marine energy training. What better way to learn than in the field? Students and apprentices…

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Safran Nacelles clears decarbonisation for take-off near Le Havre

Safran Nacelles in Gonfreville-l’Orcher, Seine-Maritime (76), is a world leader in aircraft nacelles and is cutting its carbon footprint throughout its business. It's the group's biggest production facility in France. Safran Nacelles has 1550 permanent employees at its 80,000m2 site near Le Havre. One of the world's leading aircraft engine nacelle manufacturers has three specialist…

Normandie Attractivité

World Calvados Day 2024, the third of its kind!

Let's take a look at World Calvados Day 2024, celebrating Normandy's signature spirit around the world.The third World Calvados Day took place on October 17th and saw Normans put Normandy in the spotlight all over the world.  What makes World Calvados Day a unique celebration? On the third Thursday in October, Normans get together over…

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Fécamp, OLVEA’s home port

OLVEA is now a world leader in its industry, specialising in fish oil high in Omega 3 and vegetable oil for the food and cosmetics sectors. The company was founded in Fécamp in Seine-Maritime and has made its location a key asset.. https://youtu.be/-azHPYZBaL0 French content Every generation of the Daudruy family has had a hand…

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Palais Bénédictine, entrepreneurial spirit

It's three things in one: a historical landmark, architectural oddity and factory. The Palais Bénédictine is an institution in Fécamp. A tour of the distillery (which makes a million litres of the famous liqueur every year) and its museum is top of the list for any visitor to the area.  https://youtu.be/3Lnc4COGa40 French content Appearances can…

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How the general public supports bioplastics research in Normandy 

The "Des Générations Plastiques" participatory research project launched by the Université de Caen ABTE and Le Dôme science centre is now being rolled out. Up to 2000 kits will be distributed among the general public to test a new generation of bioplastic and explore its potential uses. https://youtu.be/ES9gWQUfNEQ French content Bioplastics are a real alternative…

Normandie Attractivité

The A84 motorway, conquering Western France

The A84 between Caen and Rennes is more than just a motorway; it's an asset for mobility, economic development and rural areas. It was opened, section by section, up until 2003 and has transformed the lives of people and businesses in the region. The infrastructure on the "Route des Estuaires" between Spain and Belgium has…

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The Rouen Metro, an urban revolution

The Rouen "metro" is still one of Normandy's most ambitious transport projects: it had to run through the city centre without being an eyesore, span the Seine to take passengers from one bank to the other and work alongside road traffic. The Rouen tram/subway system launched 30 years ago and is still a public transport…

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Restoring Mont-Saint-Michel’s island nature

A major project got under way to stop sand building up around the bay, make Mont-Saint-Michel an island again and restore the Wonder's unique beauty. Waterworks, new roads and engineering structures: the mammoth project is still one of the most original landscaping operations in Europe.   Mont Saint-Michel was listed twice as UNESCO World Heritage in…

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Normandy, sustainable tourism trailblazer

Several Normandy communities have earned their eco stripes and were named Green Destinations in 2023 and 2024. The international award celebrates sustainable tourism practices in towns and villages around the world. Let's find out more about a label supporting tourism that's better for people, nature and the environment! A community movement It all began with the…

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Pont de Normandie, a tightrope between two banks

It's become a symbol of the region. The Pont de Normandie is a steel and concrete giant spanning the Seine estuary between Honfleur and Le Havre. It's a sight for sore eyes that has made life easier for the region and its residents. It was built between 1988 and 1995 in a feat of engineering…

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Flamanville EPR: a powerhouse in Normandy

Flamanville EPR in Manche is up and running after a mammoth construction project. Building this next-generation nuclear reactor has been one of the biggest industrial projects in recent years. The low-carbon electricity it produces will help France gain energy independence.  Top 10 facts about the Flamanville EPR 57th nuclear reactor in France, 4th working EPR…

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GLLU: sustainable furniture made in Normandy

GLLU designs and makes 100% Norman, sleek and sustainable furniture in Malaunay, near Rouen. The Normandy Economy Awards, organised by AD Normandie, put the business in the spotlight for its "Made in Normandie" category. Let's find out more. Explore Gllu’s lovingly-made wooden furniture 9 people put their experience and craftsmanship into the Malaunay workshop to…

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Genexpath helps detect cancer

The Normandy start-up sells tests to classify lymphomas and sarcomas. The technique developed at the cancer research unit at Centre Henri Becquerel in Rouen is intended to help improve treatment and care. Juliette Renauld isn't a researcher or a scientist. The 46 year old is the director of Genexpath, a Rouen start-up specialising in tests to detect…

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Normandie Equine Vallée

Normandie Equine Vallée is making significant investments at its Goustranville and Saint-Contest sites for new structures and teams in the field of equine health. Its pool of resources and skills makes Normandy a region known for its world-class equine health expertise.  From diagnosis to treatment, Normandy will soon be home to every kind of equine…

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Exploring Nuclear Training and Risk Prevention in Normandy

19 year old Lisa Guilbert has a nuclear maintenance vocational diploma from Lycée Emulation Dieppoise is now in the final year of her nuclear environment HND. Under the watchful eye of her mentor, Guillaume Robin, she's continuing her apprenticeship at EDF as part of the risk prevention team at Penly nuclear power plant near Dieppe. Let's…

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The 3NC project: Normandy powers up nuclear training

Given the huge projects in the pipeline in Normandy, companies are looking for an equally huge amount of talent. The Region is on their side and has brought its partners together to back the 3NC campaign (which translates as "Normandy, nuclear, new skills" in English). Mission: train over 5400 people a year by 2030. The…

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Visual arts in Normandy

Normandy is renowned for its art and music, but that hasn't stopped it making its mark as a creative hub with the region's RN13BIS contemporary art network. Marie Pleintel is at the helm of the network that brings together a hundred artists, curators and cultural venues from all over Normandy. What's the idea? Support the…

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Rowing in Normandy

21 year old Louis Thermy hails from Montpellier and has lived in Rouen for 4 years. Every week he has a date with the Seine. Why? He's a member of the regional youth rowing academy and trains non-stop in Rouen with the goal to join the French team and compete in the 2028 Olympics. Let's…

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Normandy and the 2024 Olympics

Normandy and the 2024 Olympics, a game of expertise! From the Olympic torch and training centres to the creativity and passion that goes into sport, dive into an Olympic journey showcasing Normandy's talent. An athletic land Alexis Hanquinquant, Florian Merrien, Flavie Renouard, Amida Zidani... Do those names sound familiar? They should: they're all athletes from…

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Green hydrogen; Air Liquide Normand’Hy aims to build an electrolyser of at least 200MW

Air Liquide specialises in industrial gas and will launch a high-capacity electrolyser to produce renewable, low-carbon hydrogen in 2026. The facility will help local manufacturers lower their emissions and promote green hydrogen production in France. This isn't the first time that the French group has blazed a trail: it fitted a one-of-a-kind carbon capture unit…

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Introducing Bioeconomy For Change (b4c)

In the space of a few years, Bioeconomy For Change (B4C) has become the flagship network for the bioeconomy in France, Europe and internationally. What do they do exactly? They help their members in their innovation and industrialisation projects surrounding biomass. The business cluster joined forces with the Region in 2021 and uses the area's…

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Normandie Energies: leading the future of sustainable energy

Alban Verbecke from Grenoble first visited Normandy twenty years ago. He is now president of Normandie Energies and shares his bond with a land that he wouldn't leave for anything in the world. It's a land that stands out for its sustainable energy and being a unique place to live. https://youtu.be/L4IBNWyaS9E Where does Normandy rank…

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Interview with Frédéric Vardon, a devoted Normandy chef

Frédéric Vardon was born in Eure. His parents were butchers/caterers and came from farming stock between Orne and Calvados. He is now a famous chef at Le 39V, a restaurant in the golden triangle in the 8th arrondissement in Paris. He began his career in Paris at Au Trou Gascon, went to work for Michelin-starred…

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The Normandy Region Nurtures Entrepreneurs and Innovation

Is the Normandy region a land of entrepreneurs? The co-founders of Yousign, the European leader in e-signatures for SMEs/VSBs, certainly thinks so. The start-up was founded in 2013, moved to the Caen peninsula in September 2022 and is pushing forwards with a new CEO, new markets and new recruits. Let's meet Luc Pallavidino, co-founder and…

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Biofuel production is being revolutionised by the T.H2 project in Normandy

The T.H2 project launched by Vincent Calleja, CEO of the Tertu Group since 2018, intends to produce second-generation biofuel then green hydrogen in Blainville-sur-Orne, just outside Caen.Why? To recycle up to 120,000 tons of waste wood every year and promote green transport in Normandy. On top of that, the factory and process are carbon neutral.…

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Laboratoire Dielen explores marine biotechnology to create natural active ingredients

Laboratoire Dielen was founded in 1978 by an agricultural engineer called Bernard Noël. It is now one of the leading marine biotechnology laboratories in France. The Manche company is fuelled by its eco-friendly values and CSR policy to constantly innovate and regularly hire new recruits. Let's find out more. https://youtu.be/eFG5kefMEj0 French content A family of…

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WeeeCycling Leads Critical Metals Recycling Innovation in Normandy

The Normandy company was founded in 2019 in Tourville-les-Ifs, near Le Havre, and is the only one in the world making 100% recycled metals, including platinoids. WeeeCycling won the 2030 French Critical Metals call to tender and is now expanding to significantly increase its production capacity and meet demand. Platinum, rhodium, palladium, ruthenium, iridium, silver…

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Discover Sarah Levavasseur’s journey in painting and decorating

22 year old Sarah Levavasseur is a 2nd year painting & decorating NVQ student at the Caen CFA. She also won silver in the French finals of the World Skills competition. Let's take a look at multiple perspectives of a multi-facetted trade with her mentor, Guillaume Dufour in Saint-Pierre-de-Semilly, Manche. What painting and decorating involve…

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Waltersperger, a glass manufacturer with real expertise

Bresle Valley in Seine-Maritime has been known as the glass valley since the 15th century. It alone accounts for over 70% of the perfume bottles produced worldwide and keeps countless traditional trades alive. Let us introduce you to Waltersperger, a living heritage company and the last semi-automatic glass manufacturer in France. Stéphanie Tourres Responsable -…

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NEODD 2030: Normandy businesses tackling climate change

NEODD 2030 was founded in 2021 by several Normandy business figures, including three employers' unions: MEDEF, U2P and CPME. The goal is to encourage SMEs and VSBs to join the ecological transition. With the support of the Normandy Region and ADEME, it launched B-NEODD in November 2022: a new tool to help regional businesses begin…

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Mijuin: flying the flag for French products

What is Mijuin? It's a start-up based in Seine-Maritime that wants to provide easier access to flax through local distribution channels. The winner of the Tomorrow's Topics category at the 2023 Normandy Economy Awards is a garment factory where quality meets sustainability Why flax production is at the heart of Mijuin’s sustainable mission "It controls…

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Maison Berger: Over a century of expertise

Maurice Berger, a pharmacy technician, created the Lampe Berger in 1898 as an air purifier. Fast forward to the present day and it's now a fully-fledged home accessory. Let's go behind the scenes of the company based in Grand-Bourgtheroulde, in Eure, since 1975. Maison Berger Paris, history https://youtu.be/gZXsEoAuLx4 It all began in 1898 after a…

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LEIZUP: improve your social life

Moving to a new place is hard, even if it is Normandy! It may be a lovely place to live but moving to a new region can mean big changes: no family close by, new routines etc. Yoann Poher and Samuel Guillot launched Leizup to help people settle in and combat loneliness. It's a 100%…

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How 6NAPSE Group’s test centres are shaping the future of aerospace technology

The 6NAPSE Group is a group of labs and support and test centres. Three of them are in Normandy: CEVAA in Saint-Etienne-du-Rouvray (76), Analyses et Surface in Val-de-Reuil (27) and 6NAPSE in Vernon (27). The group helps several major sectors in Normandy's industries, including aerospace and automotive, in terms of R&D, inspection and reliability for…

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Visit the last sequin factory in France, Langlois-Martin, located in Orne

Let's meet Jean-Baptiste Drachkovitch (on the right), co-director of Langlois-Martin, the last sequin manufacturer in France, alongside Pascal Bernard since 2010. The business was founded in 1919 and left the Paris area in September 2018 for Saint-Ouen-sur-Iton in Orne. The factory opened its doors to visitors for the first time as part of the European…

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Horse riding in Normandy

Lolita is a 6th year medicine student from Caen. She's loved horse riding since she was a little girl and now indulges in her hobby in Ranville, Calvados. Let's meet her! https://youtu.be/eY8oSgSg1-Q A passion for horses "I fell in love with riding when I was 6 and attended the riding centre in Sully until I…

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Climbing in Normandy

39 year old Laura Pugin from Doubs first came to Normandy 12 years ago. She fell in love with the Eure area and that's where, 3 years ago, she discovered climbing. It was an instant hit. Let's find out more. https://youtu.be/0aKiX312bRY A latecomer to climbing Laura, a school teacher in Val-de-Reuil, discovered her passion for…

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Discover Golf in Normandy: Scenic Courses and Rich History

An "albatross", "birdie" and "eagle" are just a few terms to "fly the green" in golf, a popular sport in Normandy. Golf in Normandy offers breathtaking scenery, top-tier technical challenges and a warm welcome, making it a favourite destination for golf lovers. Augustin agrees. Whether you're a fellow golfer or want to find out more…

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Trail running in Normandy

If you love trails and running, then lace up and come to Normandy! Gaylord agrees. The 43 year old is leaving Seine-Maritime and Orne behind for Eure this summer: he runs every weekend and this is his chance to explore new playgrounds. Let's find out more. https://youtu.be/zJtj9VsRRtM How trail running in Normandy enhances community and…

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Land sailing in Normandy

20 year old Mathilde Larose was born and bred in Cherbourg and recently found a new hobby: land sailing. The accomplished athlete is a youth and sports education apprentice and found out about the well-known Normandy sport at the Office des Sports de Sciotot in the Manche. https://youtu.be/qLwhsYzxxiU Love at first sail "I was introduced…

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Normandy beer: a taste of reality!

Normandy is more than just cider and calvados... there's beer too! The region is home to a hundred craft breweries who put all their imagination and creativity into delighting beer drinkers. Normandy beer: a long-standing tradition You may not know, but we've been making beer in Normandy for longer than we've been making cider! The…

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CERDATO designs sustainable materials of the future in Serquigny

CERDATO (Centre de Recherche, Développement et Assistance Technique de l’Ouest) in the Eure area (27) is one of the Arkema group's biggest R&D labs. 250 researchers work here, researching and developing high-performance materials that are mainly bio-based and recyclable. Making history in Normandy What do the carpet on the SS France ocean liner, shoes worn…

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Greenoco, green tech made in Normandy

The Le Havre start-up founded by Mathieu Cottard brings businesses a game-changing tool to measure and reduce their website's carbon footprint. Mathieu Cottard has run his own web design agency for 10 years and developed hundreds of shopfront websites, e-commerce and blogs for small and large companies. "There's no denying the advantage of digital in…

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Arthur’s journey to D-Day: A boy’s passion for Normandy’s History

Once upon a time, there was a 10 year old boy who longed to visit Normandy. But not just any old time! His name is Arthur and he has a passion for World War II. Not because of its weapons, noise or passion, but because of its importance as a period 2 or 3 generations…

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Music festivals in Normandy

Festivals between May and October bring Normandy to life with music and so much more! The much-anticipated events have announced their ever-thrilling line-ups. They also champion sustainable, local, community and inclusive values. Here's a snapshot of what not to miss in Normandy. They put Normandy in the spotlight Normandy's music festivals are famous and make…

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World-renowned testing centre at Normand’Innov in Orne

A new collaborative material and seismic testing platform opened in September 2018 on the Normand’Innov campus in Caligny, near Flers in Orne. The unit joins the cutting-edge equipment at the Dynamic Test Centre (CED - Centre d’Essais Dynamiques) and strengthens its international reputation. The testing centre has been working on projects like the resistance of…

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International riders flock to Normandy, the land of horses

With 2 national stud farms (Haras du Pin and Saint-Lô), 4500 breeders, countless competitions and pioneering facilities, Normandy really is the horses land. New riders and stable owners flock here every year for its mild climate (ideal for horses) and all the infrastructures that call the region home. Normandy is the only region to produce…

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Cyceron: a centre for innovation in healthcare

Cyceron is a biomedical imaging platform that has been conducting research in Caen-la-Mer since 1985. The centre plays host to world-renowned research units as well as providing the latest technological equipment and a unique group of labs on the same site. Let's meet Benoît Haelewyn, managing director of the GIP (public interest group) in charge…

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Normandy is building a world horse library

The digital world horse library went live in 2018 and provides all the information you could wish for about publications related to Normandy's iconic animal! Let's find out more about how this one-of-a-kind service came to be. Marie-Laure Peretti, Project Manager, Digital Document Unit, MRSH The Origin of Normandy’s World Horse Library  Just as the…

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Normandy’s cancer centres lead the fight against cancer with innovation and expertise

Centre François Baclesse in Caen and Centre Henri Becquerel in Rouen are two CLCCs (cancer centres) in Normandy. These private, non-profit, healthcare centres work in three areas of oncology: healthcare, education and research. Let's find out more about two centres that have set a benchmark in the region, whose research and unique features are beacons…

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Normandy Industries: Future energy, digital and manufacturing leading the way

Normandy, a land for the future? Yes, for several reasons. Let's take a sneak peek at a few of the industries that are hiring and hear what employees have to say! https://youtu.be/bkhkeO4e9A4 French content Normandy industries embrace decarbonisation and innovation to shape the future of manufacturing. Manufacturing has moved into the modern age over the…

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Multiple Perspectives on Milling: Sacha Greneche Showcases Normandy’s Precision and Talent

He won the excellence award at the French WorldSkills event in 2023 and will represent France on the world stage at the event in September 2024: Sacha Greneche, a BTS student in Conception des processus de réalisation de produits (process design in manufacturing) in Lisieux, will champion Normandy milling expertise. Let's hear multiple perspectives about…

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CPM Industries, the SME with big ideas for the environment

Low-tech, CSR, decarbonisation, distributed manufacturing… The small fine sheet metalwork company a few miles from Le Havre is proving that commitment to sustainable development isn't just for big business. Low-tech philosophy The company was founded in 1990 by Jean-Marie Panchout, a sheet metalworker, and taken over by two of his children in 2014. Benoist Panchout,…

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Fakear, the electro-prodigy from Normandy

With a new album, Hypertalisman, and a concert at the legendary Salle Pleyel, 2024 has been a milestone year for a Normandy artist who is often described as an electro prodigy. To celebrate the Music Festival, let's take another look at the no-holds-barred interview with Théo Le Vigoureux, aka Fakear! https://youtu.be/AinMnIZEffg French contentHe got thousands…

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Virtuoz Feelobject: Revolutionising Accessibility for the Visually-Impaired

The start-up based in Petit-Quevilly has designed an innovative tactile map concept for people with a visual impairment. Virtuoz is already in place at Disneyland Paris, the Assemblée Nationale and will be at the Fan Zones at the Paris Olympics in 2024. Getting your bearings in a new place is simply impossible when you have…

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FLEXIKEG: Revolutionising Sustainable Kegs for a Greener Future

FLEXIKEG makes sustainable and durable kegs and won the Innovation award at the most recent Normandy Economy Awards, organised by the economic development agency AD Normandie. It's a major asset to help countless businesses embrace the challenge of sustainability transition. New Generation Kegs: Lighter, Recyclable and Versatile What's the idea? Make kegs that are lighter,…

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Krystale: The Crown Jewel of Normandy’s Coastline

Krystale is the name of a precious gem in a pearl setting… it's the perfect name for it! The hearty yet delicate oyster is grown and farmed in Gouville-sur-Mer in the Manche area.  The K'Dual family have a passion for Normandy and have spent over 10 years working in suspended oyster culture, an innovative shellfish…

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80 Years of D-Day History

There may not be many people left to give a first-hand account of the much-anticipated French liberation, but June 6th 1944 will always be a landmark date for the people of Normandy. The D-Day Landings, Battle of Normandy, French Liberation and restoration of peace: encounters, legacies and commemorations keep the memory alive throughout the generations.…

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Sustainable Christmas gifts from Normandy: eco-friendly gift ideas

Christmas is fast approaching and it's time to find some original gifts to take care of your loved ones and the planet. This year, give the gift of sustainability with the Normandy stamp on it!Here's a selection of local eco-friendly brands with ethical and exciting gift ideas.  PimpantZero-waste everyday essentials  Pimpant is a business based…

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Emploi Normandie: revolutionising recruitment in Normandy

Are you struggling to find staff? Looking for that rare gem? A place where you can say what you're looking for and why your business is a great place to work? Good news: the new platform designed by the Normandy Region and its partners meets your every need. Let's find out more. A unique tool…

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The biggest-ever wind turbine blade measures 107m, and it’s from Cherbourg!

A record-breaking 107m long rotor blade makes it the biggest offshore turbine blade ever built. LM WIND POWER in Cherbourg holds the record. The challenge began in 2017 and has stayed the course: one of the biggest French factories in the General Electric group hasn't stopped hiring staff since it opened in January 2019. fabrication…

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Multiple perspectives: industrial maintenance, the manufacturing doctors

He's one of 4 Normans to join the French team for the international WorldSkills competition in September 2024: 20 year old Thiaifène, an apprentice at Mont-Blanc in Manche, will champion Normandy's expertise in industrial maintenance. Let's take a look at multiple perspectives of a popular trade in the area with Vincent Bettin, his HND teacher…

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Showcasing IT talent in Normandy: get ready for WorldSkills 2024 with Thomas and Zakina

After winning gold at the national competition, 21 year old Thomas will showcase his skills on the international stage at WorldSkills with the French team in September 2024. What does he do? He designs business software solutions. He is learning his trade from Zakina, his application development HND teacher Lycée Jean Rostand in Caen, who…

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Sinay, an Industry 4.0 business 

Environmental impact assessment, port risk management, optimised fishing, modelling, simulation and experimentation, navigational risk assessment and more. SINAY was founded in 2008 and has designed the first multi-business big data platform. The Normandy SME provides unique digital and maritime expertise and won the first Index French Blue Tech, an award promoting maritime start-ups with 23…

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Alga Biologics: fighting the big C with the sea

49 year old Muriel Bardor is making her childhood dream come true, or almost. She started out wanting to battle genetic disorders but ended up finding a way to produce antibodies that could treat some forms of cancer using microalgae... Her start-up, Alga Biologics, has already won several awards including the Normandie4Good prize in 2023.…

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Multiple perspectives: welding in Normandy

20 year old Jayson and 25 year old Maël both come from Cherbourg-en-Cotentin in Manche. There's only a few years between them but they have the same passion and experience: welding and WorldSkills. The former won gold at the last trade competition in Lyon and joined the French team to compete at the international contest. The…

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Normandy scallops: Arnaud Vanhamme’s ocean treasure

Fishmonger and Meilleur Ouvrier de France (MOF), Arnaud Vanhamme is the patron of the 2023 La Grande Débarque. The autumn event celebrates the return of the scallop, an emblem of Normandy, all over France!  What does being a fishmonger involve?  Fishmongers get fresh deliveries (fish, shellfish, seafood) every morning that they get the best out of…

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NEOLITIK, pioneering innovative and sustainable construction

The industrial start-up NEOLITIK won the design award at the Normandy Economy Awards and is revolutionising the world of construction. What sets it apart? An innovative alternative to concrete and stone called EcoLithe designed for eco-friendly building sites. From Paris to Fécamp Thirty-something Marc Dib left Île-de-France for Seine-Maritime in 2022. Why? To set up…

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Jean-Louis Louvel, eco-friendly entrepreneurship

Jean-Louis Louvel is president of the PGS Group near Rouen in Seine-Maritime and was named "Entrepreneur of 2023" by EY. It's a first for a managing director in the region. Let's meet a Norman with inspiring values and his sights set on a more sustainable world. What does PGS stand for? Palettes, Gestion, Services (Pallets,…

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World Calvados Day 2023: the ambassadors showcased calvados and Normandy to the world!

October 20th saw over 500 people get together from all over the world as part of the second World Calvados Day celebrating Normandy's signature spirit. Normandy ambassadors living everywhere from New York, Sydney and Dakar to Tokyo, Brasilia, Vietnam and Mauritius used any excuse to get together with fellow Normans, friends, workmates and family to put Normandy…

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La Glass Vallée: an industry of excellence in Normandy

La Glass Vallée is the world leader in luxury bottleware and accounts for over 70% of global production of glass bottles for fragrances, spirits, cosmetics, medicine and toiletries. This industry of excellence brings centuries of expertise together in the Bresle Valley, on the border with Normandy and the Hauts-de-France. Let's take a deep dive into glass…

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AJ Hackett: Normandy, a natural choice

He introduced people to adrenaline-pumping experiences when he bungee jumped off the Eiffel Tower in 1987. AJ Hackett has set up bungee jump sites around the globe attracting thrill-seekers from all over the world. What fuels him? Creating unforgettable experiences in incredible places. One of them is the Souleuvre site in Calvados, the famous New…

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The Prix Liberté: Normandy’s tribute to history

The Prix Liberté is awarded by 15-25 year olds every year to people or organisations fighting for freedom. The innovative campaign is organised by the Normandy Region and brought to life by the Institut international des droits de l’Homme et de la paix (International Institute for Human Rights and Peace) based in Hérouville-Saint-Clair. The award…

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Parapluie de Cherbourg: an umbrella for any weather

A popular film around the world, a magical soundtrack and an umbrella shop that became famous despite being pure fantasy... at the time. Jacques Demy's film inspired 22 year old Jean-Pierre Yvon to create his own brand and Le Véritable Cherbourg umbrella factory in the heart of town in 1986. His son, Charles Yvon, now…

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Cider in Normandy: the apple of the region’s eye!

The profession is attracting more women and young people, business is booming and sustainability is a key ingredient. A cider from Normandy was named the best cider in the world in 2023 and Normandy has never shone so brightly in the cider world. Let's introduce you to 5 Normandy producers, flying the flag for their…

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La Cité de la Mer in Cherbourg: an iconic maritime adventure

La Cité de la Mer opened in the former Gare Maritime Transatlantique in Cherbourg-en-Cotentin on April 29th 2002. 20 years later, La Cité de la Mer and its Le Redoutable submarine won the 2022 season of "Le Monument préféré des Français" (France's favourite monument TV show) presented by Stéphane Bern. Let's answer all your questions…

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Reviving Normandy’s flax industry: sustainable textile production

The essence of economic fabric? By definition, the system of producing and managing material wealth from design to end product. From crop to clothing via scutching, weaving and knitting: Normandy has helped France make a name for itself as the home for every component of its world-renowned high quality flax. Normandy's La French Filature in…

Lucie QUIGNON

Horse racing: No pain, no Graignes

Saddle trotting, harness racing and gallop racing more recently… The Afasec horse racing college in Graignes teaches over a hundred students from around the world the art of turf racing in Saint-Lô Agglo in Manche. Despite being little-known and hard to fill, careers in the sector are attainable and appealing. A unique school in Normandy…

Lucie QUIGNON

Major events in 2024: Normandy in the spotlight 

France is celebrating several major events in 2024. Sports, culture, history, crafts and innovation are key themes for the new year. Normandy will be there for all of them to, once again, showcase its quality of life, vibrant economy and ambitions for the future. Here's a sneak peek. Salon du Travail et de la Mobilité…

Lucie QUIGNON

Nuclear, a future industry in Normandy

Careers in the nuclear industry have been in the shadows for a long time… but there's some exciting energy around them in Normandy. Two major projects have seen a rise in vacancies for anyone who wants to be part of expanding an independent and decarbonised energy sector! Let's find out more. Normandy, a hotbed for…

Lucie QUIGNON

Futerro: the future of sustainable, green plastic in Normandy

We got the good news at the end of 2022… Following in the footsteps of Eastman, the Belgian brand Futerro announced it was coming to the Port-Jérôme business park in Seine-Maritime. What's the idea? To open the world's first industrial facility producing, processing and recycling bioplastic. It brings the circular economy and energy transition together:…

Lucie QUIGNON

Ireland & Normandy: the links that tie them together forever

Ireland? Guinness, greenery and the Troubles. But that's not all. The country has had a close bond with Normandy that lives on today, after 850 years and one invasion. Read on for our Top 5 bonds! Act I : Invasion After the Duke of Normandy, William the Conqueror, conquered England in 1066, the Normans turned…

Lucie QUIGNON

Normandy and England: celebrating our shared history and culture at major events

In the wake of a delegation's trip to London in early December 2023, let's take a look at what's coming up in 2024 and beyond to celebrate the bonds between Normandy and England. William the Conqueror's 1000th birthday: a cultural tribute that goes beyond borders Normandy is getting ready to celebrate William the Conqueror's 1000th…

Lucie QUIGNON

Aptar Pharma: a pioneering group

Normandy is home to a network of pioneering groups and industries that are often looking for new staff and working hard to make the industry more sustainable. Let's meet Aptar Pharma in Eure, the world's leading spray and aerosol manufacturer for the pharmaceutical industry and an "Industry Showcase of the Future". https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D9IYg6YGCl8 What is the…

Lucie QUIGNON

Eastman: a unique molecular recycling facility in Normandy

Eastman has underlined Normandy's place as an industrial region for the future by opening the biggest molecular recycling facility in the world in Port-Jérôme-sur-Seine (76). What's the idea? Decarbonisation and virtuous economy. A billion euro project The US giant's factory is the biggest in the world: it will recycle up to 160,000 metric tons of…

Lucie QUIGNON

British Normandy Memorial in Ver-sur-Mer: honouring D-day heroes

The British Normandy Memorial was officially inaugurated on June 6th 2021 in Ver-sur-Mer after 6 years of work. The memorial pays tribute to both the British armed forces, who played a crucial role during the D-Day Landings in June 1944, and the Norman civilians who lost their lives during the battle. Tribute to 22 442…

Lucie QUIGNON

The history of the Irish Hospital in Saint-Lô

Catherine Gagneux from Orne is a member of our Normandy Ambassadors network. Back in 2020, the Honorary Consul of France in Ireland stumbled upon the moving history of the Irish Red Cross that came to Saint-Lô, in Manche, after D-Day. Let's turn back the clock and dive into the show of solidarity! The discovery Catherine…

Lucie QUIGNON

The rest of the world joins Normandy in remembering D-Day

The Allies landed in Normandy to liberate France and Europe from the Nazis on June 6th 1944. The milestone event made Normandy famous the world over. Projects such as the Normandy World Peace Forum or Prix Liberté help to remember the past and pass down essential values to future generations. 80 years have passed but…

Lucie QUIGNON

Uncover the secrets behind Normandy’s organic AOP camembert!

Patrick Mercier is a dairy farmer in Champsecret, near Domfront in Orne, who began making organic camembert with the protected designation of origin in 2010. 70% of his milk is now used to make his cheese.  Patrick Mercier is a champion of Normandy's expertise and is president of the ODG (Normandy Camembert Protection and Management…

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Calvados, Normandy’s signature spirit

What is calvados? If you know your French geography then you'll know it's a "département" in France. It's also a world-renowned spirit made using Norman expertise. Let's find out more about an iconic apple brandy as we introduce you to four Normandy distilleries. DOMAINE DE LA FLAGUERIE Domaine de la Flaguerie has been cultivating the…

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Haras National du Pin: Normandy’s iconic equestrian site

It was selected as one of 17 iconic French sites in 2022 for Stéphane Bern's Mission Patrimoine and will host international teams for the Paris Olympics in 2024. It also hosts several equestrian events, innovative activities and outstanding training. Let's answer your questions about the Haras National du Pin, an iconic (and Norman!) in the…

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In the Suisse-Normande area, Cotral Lab, world leader in custom-moulded hearing protection devices

In the workplace, the different kinds of harm caused by regular exposure to noise are recognised today, such as tension, tiredness, difficulty in concentrating, irritation or hearing loss. In order to combat these problems, Laurent Capellari founded Cotral Lab 26 years ago, at Condé-sur-Noireau, in the Norman county of Calvados. His aim? To provide custom-moulded…

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Virtual Reality (VR) at the service of research

CIREVE (the Centre Interdisciplinaire de Réalité Virtuelle, or Centre for Interdisciplinary Virtual Reality) is at the heart of the University of Caen Normandy’s technology centre, created in 2006 and, since 2012, part of the training and research unit for humanities and the social sciences (the Unité de Formation et de Recherche, or UFR Humanités et…

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Isigny-Sainte-Mère: Normandy dairy know-how recognised around the world

Since 1932, Normandy’s Isigny-Sainte-Mère Cooperative has proudly maintained its know-how and quality in making dairy products. Managed by Daniel Delahaye since 1990 until his recent retirement, the business now achieves two thirds of its turnover abroad. Milk, cheese, fromage frais, butter and cream sold under the Isigny Ste-Mère brand are to be found across the…

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Eco-Technilin: an international showcase for norman know-how

Based at Valliquerville near Yvetot in the Norman county of Seine-Maritime, Eco-Technilin is Europe’s leading supplier of non-woven products made from natural fibres (flax, hemp, kenaf, jute), mainly used for car interiors. Video portrait. Sustainable development The company was created in the year 2000 by an agricultural cooperative, in order to make the most of…

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Tertu: how Normandy is helping make roads safer around the world

They flash past us, often unseen, and yet they’re indispensable. They appeared in france in the 1960s, lining the roads – retaining devices, or crash barriers. They help keep vehicles on the road and give users added security. In the norman county of orne, at villedieu-lès-bailleul, tertu equipements has been developing innovative ones made from…

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In Normandy: training that’s unique in France !

Outside Saint-Pierre-en-Auge, a town in the county of Calvados, the Etablissement Public Local Agricole Le Robillard is a local public agricultural college that offers a rather special year’s course that’s unique in France, leading to a Certificate in ‘‘specialisation in cider’’. This is aimed at people looking for a career change retraining to produce and…

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D-Day: A Norman’s tribute to veterans

The wonderful story that you are about to read comes from one of our Normandy Ambassadors, living out in the USA, Virginie Feutry-Durr, without whom this D-Day 2024 would be lacking one of its key ingredients. In 2022, due to her background and her commitment, she was able to lead an American airline company, a…

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