Pinette PEI: French engineering serving global industry

Despite a context marked by relocations and factory closures, some companies are proving that it is still possible to innovate, grow, and expand from France. Pinette PEI, founded over 160 years ago, and its sister brand Jean Perrot (63 years old), are a shining example. At their helm, Mr. Erick Rousseau, a former engineering apprentice who became the group's president, embodies this French success story. His credo: combining industrial heritage, disruptive innovation, and a sense of humanity.

A technological heritage serving the largest sectors

A leader in industrial equipment engineering and manufacturing since 1863, Pinette PEI has established itself as a major player in the aeronautics, space, nuclear, energy, transportation, defense, and medical sectors. Its offering is structured around three brands:

• Pinette PEI , a global specialist in the forming and processing of composites, test and control benches, and assembly lines.
• Jean Perrot , a benchmark in manual and automated sheet metal forming, with its press brakes, shears, rolling machines, bending machines and robotic cells.
• Gade , expert in sheet metal processing for the Italian and Eastern European markets.

Through a global presence, particularly in Europe, America and Asia, the group shares its unique know-how with an international and diverse clientele.

Innovate where others don't

What sets Pinette PEI apart. https://pinetteemidecau.eu/
, is its ability to go into unexplored territory . For example, the group has developed robotic islands capable of handling parts 6 meters long and up to 230 kilos , a challenge where safety, flexibility and productivity are intertwined. " Our strength lies in our ability to innovate and meet unique challenges. " "Mr. Erick Rousseau, CEO of Groupe Pinette PEI"

Beyond performance and productivity, Pinette PEI also places operator safety and health at the heart of its innovations. The new solutions offered aim to limit musculoskeletal disorders, reduce strain, and make machines more intuitive.

The circular economy as a driving force

Pinette PEI is also establishing itself as a pioneer in the circular economy. The group is adapting its machines to process recycled materials—plastics, textiles, and natural fibers like linen and hemp. “ The range of possibilities is immense. We want to be a key player in this transition ,” says Erick Rousseau, CEO of the Pinette PEI Group.

This approach is accompanied by a performance requirement: in the work of composites, which are extremely expensive, the objective is clear – “to guarantee the right part from the first production run”, thanks to in-depth mastery of processes and advanced integration of sensors, preventive maintenance and optimization software.

Cutting-edge R&D and an internal laboratory

The group has weathered crises and changes thanks to two strategic choices: market diversification and massive investment in R&D . Today, more than 55 employees work in research, technology monitoring, and design offices. The latest initiative: the creation of an internal laboratory where customers and partners can conduct real-life tests, test new materials, and prototype industrial processes.

"This allows us to prepare tomorrow's solutions today ," says Mr. Rousseau.

Diversification and resilience: industrial DNA

Pinette PEI's longevity is based on intelligent diversification. When nuclear power collapsed for 30 years, the group was able to rebound in aeronautics and automotive. Today, the nuclear sector is experiencing renewed momentum, and the brand continues to assert its presence with a solid reputation.

Each sector brings new constraints and new knowledge that enriches other markets. This ability to transfer know-how is a major differentiating asset.

Humans and the collective, pillars of the model

" Without men and women, you achieve nothing ," the manager reminds us. The company puts people at the center: working conditions, ergonomics, safety, and inclusion. Nearly 20% of the workforce is already women , including in the workshops, with a short-term target of 23%.

According to Mr. Erick Rousseau, " productivity is closely linked to the well-being of operators" , thus highlighting the importance of a balance between performance and working conditions.

An assumed international ambition

Pinette PEI generates a large portion of its revenue from exports and intends to accelerate. According to Mr. Erick Rousseau, France holds all the cards: "We have the productivity, the engineering, the innovation, the quality. We must not be afraid to face global competition ." But this development cannot happen without a favorable ecosystem. "It is essential to be supported by local authorities and the State, and to have showcases like Global Industrie, which embodies French know-how and is now opening up internationally ," he emphasizes. The requirement remains nonetheless high: "If you stop pedaling, you fall. Innovation must be continuous. " In China, he points out, "Machines are copied as soon as they are delivered. The secret? Always have something more to offer. "

Inspiring younger generations

Finally, Mr. Erick Rousseau is keen to rehabilitate the image of industry. " We are no longer in the era of Zola ," he insists. " Industrial professions offer rewarding careers, rooted in exceptional projects: rockets, airplanes, electric vehicles, TGV, metros, infrastructure. Everything around us comes from industry . I also want to send an important message to parents: encourage their children to discover these professions, which offer real prospects for the future and the opportunity to flourish collectively by contributing to projects that transform daily life ."

The career of this enthusiast, who started as an apprentice 33 years ago before climbing the ladder to the presidency, embodies the strength of the French industrial elevator. Under his leadership, Pinette PEI and Jean Perrot combine tradition and modernity, innovation and social responsibility, and national and international influence.

A model that demonstrates that French industry is not in decline, but rather in full transformation, ready to meet the challenges of tomorrow in France and across the world.