French tableware group Duralex recently held a €5 million fundraising appeal to secure the future of its glass factory near Orléans, France. 

The company hit its target within hours, reaching €19 million in 2 days.

However, as a staff co-operative, €5 million is the maximum Duralex can accept in public investment.

Several companies have also supported the company by placing large orders. 

Duralex said: “[The orders] allow us to keep the factory running, secure our jobs, and keep a unique French know-how alive.”

It continued: “This exemplary support shows that together, companies and citizens, we can make French industry shine.” 

After experiencing financial difficulties, Duralex was acquired in July 2024 by its employees under the status of a Société Co-opérative de Production (SCOP).

By becoming a co-operative, the company has saved several hundred jobs at its La Chapelle-Saint-Mesmin site in Loiret, near Orléans.

In addition, turnover has increased by 22%, with the goal to break even by 2027.

The €5 million raised aims to accelerate the company’s growth, modernise its industrial facilities, and expand its international reach.