Théard

What Théard does

Théard is a privately-held French industrial company founded in 1973 by Léon and Moïse Théard, headquartered in Bourg-des-Comptes, Brittany, with approximately 100 employees and a declared share capital of €400,000 (SAS structure). The company manufactures and distributes tools, equipment, personal protective equipment, and handmade brushes for building professionals — painters, plasterers, masons, tilers, carpenters, and general contractors — operating exclusively in France through a network of exclusive field sales representatives covering the entire national territory and an online catalog.

The company runs four in-house manufacturing workshops on a single site: metallurgy (55 tonnes of steel and aluminum processed annually, producing ladders, tables, trestles and props), woodworking (200 m³ of wood annually, including the Déco-Portes DIY door kits), brush-making (1,200 handmade brushes per day under the La Sirène brand, 100% handmade since 1923 and acquired by Théard in 2001), and respiratory mask production (EPITECH FFP1/FFP2/FFP3 molded masks, using 728 km of filter material annually). The product portfolio spans 2,500+ references across six families — tools and equipment, brushes and rollers, application products, hygiene and protection, decoration, and insulation — marketed through six own sub-brands (ERGOFIRST, ERGOMUST, ERGOMAX, EPITECH, NOVALISS, La Sirène) and a distribution layer for third-party brands including Leica Geosystems, HYDE, Empire, RAM BOARD, X BOARD, S BOARD, TraitVite, Handy Paint, IMPA, MIXOL and CLING COVER.

Théard's revenue model is wholesale hardware sales to professional building-trade buyers, with pricing handled off-line via catalog requests and field sales rather than published e-commerce pricing. The company has no public financial disclosures, no outside investors, and no recorded funding rounds; it has grown organically since 1973 supplemented by two brand acquisitions (La Sirène 2001, EPITECH 2003, with the EPITECH entity absorbed in 2017). Distribution is purely domestic, and the go-to-market motion is enterprise field sales targeting professional tradespeople rather than retail or e-commerce.

Name

Théard

Legal name

THÉARD

Website

https://theard.com

Company type

Private

Founded year

1973

Operating status

Operating

Headcount range

51–100 employees

Short description

Théard is a French manufacturer and distributor of tools, equipment, PPE, and handmade brushes serving building professionals across France through four in-house workshops (metallurgy, woodworking, brush-making, mask production) and an exclusive field-sales network covering the national territory.

Ownership category

akta.pro rank

Product category

Building Trade Tools and Equipment

NAICS

Cutlery and Handtool Manufacturing (3322), Toy and Hobby Goods and Supplies Merchant Wholesalers (423920)

SIC

Cutlery, Handtools & General Hardware (3420), Pens, Pencils & Other Artists' Materials (3950)

akta.pro primary industry

Arts, Crafts & DIY Hobby Supplies Distribution (CRAOAMAE)

akta.pro secondary industries

General Arts & Crafts Supplies Retail (CRALACAA), Crafting Tools & Equipment Retail (Cutting, Adhesives, Heat Tools) (CRALACAC), Art & Drafting Supplies Retail (CRALABAG)

Keywords

• Building trade tools
• Painter equipment
• Handmade brushes
• Respiratory masks FFP
• Construction consumables

Headquarters

HQ city

Bourg-des-comptes

HQ country

France

HQ region

Europe

Offices1 record

Markets served

GTM type

B2B

Offering type

Hardware or Manufacturing

Cost components

Supply Chain, Personnel, Operations, Infrastructure, Marketing or Sales

Revenue model

1. Manufacturing and Distribution of Building Tools: THÉARD manufactures and distributes equipment and tools for building professionals. The company operates four in-house manufacturing workshops producing proprietary branded products (ERGOFIRST, ERGOMUST, ERGOMAX, EPITECH, NOVALISS, La Sirène) and distributes third-party brands (RAM BOARD, X BOARD, S BOARD, HYDE, Empire, Leica, Handy Paint, IMPA, MIXOL, TraitVite).

Go-to-market motion1 record

Distribution channels1 record

Marketing channels5 records

Core offering

Théard designs, manufactures, and distributes tools, equipment, PPE, and handmade brushes for building-trade professionals (painters, masons, plasterers, decorators, tilers, carpenters). The company produces proprietary branded products in four in-house workshops (metallurgy, woodworking, handmade brush-making, and FFP mask production) and distributes third-party international brands (HYDE, Leica, EMPIRE, RAM BOARD, MIXOL, TraitVite, Handy Paint, IMPA) across roughly 2,500 references and six product families sold exclusively through field sales representatives across France.

Product overview

Théard is a French manufacturer and distributor of tools and equipment for building trade professionals, operating from Bourg-des-Comptes, Brittany. The company operates four in-house manufacturing workshops — metallurgy, woodworking, brush-making, and protective mask production — alongside a distribution business for both its own brands and international brands. The product portfolio is organised across six families: tools and hardware (outillage et matériel), brushes and rollers (brosserie rouleaux), application products (produits de mise en œuvre), hygiene and protection (hygiène et protection), decoration, and insulation (isolation). Théard's proprietary sub-brands are ERGOFIRST (value professional range), ERGOMUST (ergonomic quality tools), ERGOMAX (premium performance), EPITECH (hygiene and protection products including wipes, soaps, and FFP masks manufactured in Brittany), and NOVALISS (mason tools for concrete). The company also owns LA SIRÈNE, a century-old brush brand acquired in 2001, now manufactured in the Breton factory. Théard additionally distributes internationally recognised brands including HYDE (painting/finishing tools), Leica Geosystems (precision measurement instruments), EMPIRE (measurement tools), RAM BOARD/X BOARD/S BOARD (ecological site protection), TraitVite (marking paint), Handy Paint (paint application accessories), IMPA (repair compound), and MIXOL (concentrated colourants).

Differentiator

Problem solved

Functional benefit

Brands

• ERGOFIRST: Professional tools range at competitive prices
• ERGOMUST
• ERGOMAX
• EPITECH
• La Sirène
• NOVALISS

Products and services

• EPITECH FFP1/FFP2/FFP3 Respiratory Masks Moulded FFP1, FFP2, and FFP3 respirator masks produced in-house in Brittany with three filtration levels for use by building, mechanical, woodwork, agricultural, medical, and paramedical professionals. The production process includes filter material assembly, elastomer injection molding, in-line quality control, and packaging; 728 km of filter material are processed annually.
• La Sirène Handmade Brushes 100% handmade brushes using 100% natural bristles, produced in-house using century-old expertise for high-end painting and decoration professionals. Annual output uses 6,500 kg of bristles for ~1,200 brushes per day, with production stages including bristle incorporation, shaping, beater operation, deburring, collar placement, and branding.
• Décoportes Wooden Door Kits Wooden do-it-yourself door-kit product line manufactured in Théard's Breton woodworking workshop; targets DIY and renovation market with custom wood, wood/aluminum, and wood/metal configurations.
• RAPID SQUARE — Équerre 5 en 1 Multi-angle measuring square in extruded aluminium that provides precise 45° and 90° angles plus variable angles from 0–90°, and serves as a line marker, measuring tape, and cutting guide for building professionals.
• ERGOMUST Magnetic Tubular Spirit Levels Magnetic tubular spirit levels available in 60 cm, 120 cm, and 200 cm lengths with three 360°-readable high-quality vials and precision of ±0.5 mm/m.
• EPITECH Pre-Moistened Cleaning Wipes (XTRA'CLEAN, CLEAN'UP, NATURAL'CLEAN) Antibacterial and double-action pre-moistened wipes for cleaning hands, tools, and non-porous surfaces in trades including construction, automotive, industry, and agriculture. Includes 20×22 cm antibacterial wipes in hermetic packaging, double-action 24×20 cm wipes made from 30% recycled materials, and XXL 43×20 cm wipes in 100% plant-based bamboo.
• EPITECH Industrial Hand-Cleaning Soaps (Onctua, Zestra, Neutra, Ultra, Extrême) Range of professional washing creams and soaps (Onctua, Zestra, Neutra, Ultra, Extrême) targeting light through extreme soiling from plaster, cement, oils, grease, adhesives, paints, varnishes, mastics, resins, inks, soot, and tar. Suitable for construction, automotive, mechanical, and industrial workshops; CPNP-normed and dermatologically tested.
• RAM BOARD / X BOARD / S BOARD Floor Protection Systems Premium 100% recycled fibre-based site-protection boards (RAM BOARD with Spill Guard waterproofing and Vapor-Cure breathability; X BOARD shock-resistant; S BOARD economical) including accessories (RAM JAMB door protector, MULTI-CUTTER, SEAM-TAPE, EDGE-TAPE, VAPOR CURE TAPE). All FSC certified and 100% recyclable.
• Cling Cover Electrostatic Protection Film Electrostatic plastic film protection against paint overspray and dust, supplied in a compact dispensing box; adheres to all surfaces, with 445 m² capacity and ultra-fast application.
• Leica DISTO D5 Laser Distance Meter Distributed Leica-branded laser distance meter measuring up to 200 m with ±1 mm accuracy, featuring a 2.4-inch pivotable colour screen, gesture remote triggering, and a camera viewfinder with 4× zoom for outdoor use.
• Leica LINO L6 / L6G / L6R / L6Gs / L6Rs Multiline Laser Levels Distributed Leica LINO 3-line 360° multiline laser levels (red-beam L6R/L6Rs and green-beam L6G/L6Gs) with up to 35 m working range, adjustable laser power, Li-Ion or AA battery power, and offset base for fixed plumb point.
• Théard LM50D Laser Distance Meter Compact laser distance meter with backlit display measuring 0.05–50 m, capable of adding/subtracting distances and computing surfaces and volumes.
• TraitVite Précision Marking Paint Aerosol marking paint for line tracing on all surfaces (metal, wood, etc.) indoors or outdoors; abrasion-resistant formula without chlorinated derivatives, heavy metals, or lead.
• Phoniliège Cork Acoustic Underlay Cork-based acoustic underlay made from recycled materials; robust against impact and heavy loads, reusable, breathable for fragile and natural floors; FSC certified.
• Starfoam 5 Acoustic Underlay Acoustic underlay for parquet and laminate floors in floating installation; 100% recyclable and compliant with standard EN 16354.
• Isoldrum HD Hybrid Floor Underlay High-density expanded polypropylene underlay for LVT, parquet, laminate, and ceramic tile; semi-bonded installation with one adhesive face; reduces resonance noise by 30%.
• ERGOMUST Putty Application Rollers Putty application rollers (80, 180, 250 mm) in fibrous material for homogeneous putty loading; compatible with airless machines and telescopic poles for height work.
• ERGOMUST Rebouch'Plak Repair Patches Repair patch for hollow partition walls (BA10, BA13, BA15, wood); four dowels provide rigid fixing for simple, fast, and durable repair; reduces putty consumption.
• ERGOMUST Plasterer Kits (Lots Plaquiste) Optimised plasterer kits including SQUALISS smoothing blades, telescopic poles, stainless steel putty knives, and putty sleeves packaged in a compact carry case with robust handle.
• NOVALISS Mason Tools Range Tool range for masons dedicated to applying traditional and decorative concrete, covering formwork, finishing, and surface preparation for concrete floors and pavements. Targets masons, landscapers, floor layers, tilers, and screed specialists.
• HYDE Circular Sander Distributed HYDE-branded circular sander with 360° pivoting head and foam support adapting to wall and ceiling contours; includes 225 mm hook-and-loop abrasive disc and compatible pole.
• HYDE Folding 5-in-1 Scraper Distributed HYDE folding 5-in-1 scraper with stainless steel blade and riveted nylon handle; serves as scraper, paint/opening tool, roller/brush cleaner, and crack opener; folds flat for pocket storage.
• Handy Paint Buckets and Trays Distributed Handy Paint range of paint buckets and trays with ergonomic handles, integrated magnets for brush storage, and interchangeable recycled plastic liners; capacities from 0.5 L to 4 L.
• Ladder-Aide Pro Aluminium ladder rung adapter for type 1AA 170 kg ladders (aluminium, fibreglass, or wood); tested and validated at 675 kg; 56 cm long × 19 cm wide plateau.

Quantifiable outcome

• 16 hours of use per mask with ecological footprint divided by 4
• +5 more outcomes

Segments1 record

Ideal customer profiles1 record

Technology focussed No

API detail

Has API

No

API docs

API detail

Core technology

AI maturity

App detail

Feature4 records

Partnerships

Two partnerships are on record, tiered minor.

• Centre Pénitentiaire de RennesminorOthersPartnership for professional reinsertion: Théard manufactures brushes in partnership with the Rennes prison, helping inmates reintegrate into the workforce.
• La Feuille d'ÉrableminorOthersPartnership with La Feuille d'Érable, an inclusive enterprise, supporting employment for individuals facing barriers to traditional employment.

Scale indicators11 records

Recent moves19 records

Expansion highlights5 records

Broad incumbents

• Stanley Black & Decker: US-based global tools and outdoor products conglomerate owning Facom, Bahco, DEWALT, and Stanley. Competes with Théard's hand tools, levels, and measurement categories through multiple brands, and is a much broader incumbent with deep professional distribution across France.
• 3M: US-based diversified industrial conglomerate with material overlap in Théard's catalog: FFP respirators (EPITECH mask range), masking tapes (MUST TAPE equivalents), abrasive/sanding products, and surface protection films. Broad incumbent competing across multiple of Théard's six product families via distribution and direct channels in France.
• Hilti: Liechtenstein-headquartered global manufacturer and direct-sales distributor of tools, software, and services for the construction professional. Overlaps with Théard's premium professional positioning, direct field sales motion, and target customer (painters, masons, general contractors), though Hilti focuses on higher-end power tools and software.

Direct peers

• Bahco (SNA Europe): Swedish professional hand tools manufacturer distributed across Europe to construction and industrial trades. Comparable premium-positioned tool offering (cutting, measuring, hand tools) sold through professional distribution channels, competing for the same French professional end-customer.
• Würth: Global market leader in B2B distribution of assembly and fastening materials to building/trade professionals, with a field sales force model nearly identical to Théard's. Comparable hybrid manufacturing + distribution strategy, multi-brand catalog, and exclusive rep coverage across multiple European territories make Würth the closest business-model analog.
• Facom: French heritage premium hand tools brand (now Stanley Black & Decker) serving automotive, industrial, and construction professionals. Directly comparable in target customer (French trade professionals), product mix (hand tools, levels, pliers), and Made-in-France/Europe craftsmanship narrative that Théard emphasizes with its ERGOMAX range.
• Uvex: German manufacturer of professional PPE including FFP1/FFP2/FFP3 respiratory masks, safety eyewear, and protective gloves. Direct overlap with Théard's EPITECH mask workshop in target product (molded FFP respirators), end-market (construction/industrial professionals), and European manufacturing positioning.
• Wooster Brush Company: US-based leading manufacturer of professional paint applicators (brushes, rollers, covers) sold to painting contractors and decorators. Closest direct competitor to Théard's La Sirène brush range in product category, professional end-customer focus, and premium handmade positioning.
• Gedore: German family-owned manufacturer of professional-grade hand tools, torque tools, and workshop equipment sold through industrial and trade channels. Comparable premium positioning, in-house metalworking manufacturing depth, and multi-generational family ownership profile.

Regional players

• Anza: Nordic specialty manufacturer of paint applicators and tools (brushes, rollers, handles) primarily serving professional painters in Northern Europe. Comparable product category (La Sirène brushes, application rollers) and professional customer base, but operates in a different geography and does not directly compete head-to-head in France.

Market position

Strengths4 records

Weaknesses4 records

Competitive moat5 records

Key risks5 records

Key highlights6 records

Customer concentration

• YouTubeyoutube.com/channel/UCmYbp6i8B29EHUNTft1Ezdg
• Facebookfacebook.com/Th%C3%A9ard-103594018511344
• LinkedInlinkedin.com/company/theard
• Instagraminstagram.com/theard.france

Revenue estimate

Valuation estimate

Number of profiles

Profiles7 records

Subsidiaries2 records

Funding overview

Funding rounds

Investors

Funding detail is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

M&A

Investments

M&A and investment is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

Frequently asked questions about Théard