In the spotlight
EFCEM member profile with André-Pierre Doucet, executive director, Synetam
André-Pierre Doucet is the délégué general (executive director) of Synetam , the French professional member organization representing manufacturers of equipment and utensils for the catering, culinary arts, and laundry industries. Formed in 2023 by the merger of Syneg and Unitam , it represents 87 leading manufacturers focused on industrial sovereignty, innovation, and ecological transition.
In this short member profile interview, he tells Michael Jones the challenges Synetam members are facing, plus how the organization – as well as EFCEM – is supporting members to face the future with optimism.
What are the biggest challenges facing Synetam members right now?
For sure, it is the risk of deindustrialisation in Europe. There are risks linked to the low-cost offers of our non-European competitors. This is not a new reality, but it is becoming stronger, for example because of China's production overcapacity. But there are also some EU mechanisms designed to protect upstream industries considered strategic, which may unintentionally harm downstream sectors like ours: the CBAM, safeguard measures on steel, and possibly the future Industrial Accelerator Act if we are not careful.
How is Synetam helping and supporting its members to overcome these challenges?
By playing our role in influencing national and European public authorities, and by working with our partner organizations (including FIM, AFCE, ORGALIM, EFCEM, and FEC). We also prepare our members for these changes through monitoring, analysis, and practical tools, such as BIM Approved by Synetam , Synetam After Sales , and the collaborative work of our committees: CSR, international, technical, and others.
In turn, how is EFCEM helping Synetam reach these wider objectives too?
We should be clear: national organizations will continue for a long time to defend their positions directly with the EU. But in principle, European institutions should also speak with European industrial organisations. EFCEM therefore needs to strengthen consensus among its members in order to become more influential.
Why should Synetam members be confident about this year, despite the challenges?
Because the share of the foodservice market continues to grow in Europe; because the ecological transition is creating new needs for equipment; and because, fortunately, we are the suppliers of these major developments.
Further details:
For more information on how Synetam is playing a key role in helping to shape the future of the equipment sector across Europe, please visit synetam.fr .