The SCMF is mobilizing to defend French industry

Moreover, they are ready to take up this strategic challenge by announcing that they will mobilize their expertise to support the implementation of major strategic projects that will contribute to French industrial sovereignty, such as the battery recycling plant project in Dunkirk.

Let us recall that this is a historic project, led by Orano, in partnership with the Chinese group XTC, for an exceptional volume of 35.000 tons of steel structures to be delivered in two years. While the first phase, relating to the construction of the building, is currently the subject of a consultation procedure, the SCMF manufacturers have received consistent signals according to which it would be highly likely that foreign subcontractors could be entrusted with the entire construction of the work, to the detriment of French companies.

For the general delegate of the SCMF, Hervé Gastaud: "Such a prospect would undoubtedly, if confirmed, have economic and social consequences for the sector, in terms of loss of know-how and jobs. A scenario that could also be repeated in the longer term, particularly concerning the construction of future EPR2 units, the infrastructure for the 2030 Olympic Games, etc. At a time when France has set itself the ambition of developing its industrial competitiveness by 2030, among other things via the "France Relance" program, in a historical context of hyper-competition on the international scene, this project represents a considerable opportunity for manufacturers in the sector."

Aware that they will not be able to industrially respond to the entire project, several French metal construction companies and SCMF members are considering joining forces to form a Team France to partially respond to this call for tenders. This initiative will now be replicated by SCMF members of all sizes to compete in each future major project that emerges throughout France.

For Hervé Gastaud: "The dynamism and enthusiasm of the companies in our sector are perfectly embodied in this proactive approach to responding to these calls for tenders. Like the Eiffel Tower or the Millau Viaduct, French metal construction companies boast centuries-old heritage know-how and unique expertise in the design, manufacture, and implementation of both large-scale works and more modest structures. For several decades now, they have been pursuing a sustained policy of investment in research and development aimed at modernizing production tools and methods, as demonstrated by the launch of the "France Métallique" program."

French metal construction, exceptional industrial know-how and a key player in the economic and social development of the regions

A true pillar of national sovereignty, an industrial flagship with centuries-old expertise, and an innovative sector committed to recycling and decarbonization, the French metal construction sector is indeed a strategic lever for reindustrialization, ecological transition, and regional economic development. At the same time, companies in the sector play a significant role in the economic and social development of the regions, generating tens of thousands of indirect jobs in numerous sectors of activity (transport, real estate, catering, local businesses, etc.).

As the only national employers' organization representing the metal construction industry, the SCMF brings together some 850 French metal construction companies (mostly SMEs and mid-caps with family structures) employing more than 20.000 people. The turnover generated by SCMF members amounts to more than €4 billion, including 5 to 10% from exports, for a total volume of 790.000 tons of steel used. It should also be noted that French metal constructors are involved in new construction and renovation of various types of structures: industrial and agricultural buildings, bridges and footbridges, pylons, parking lots, stations, canopies, but also cultural buildings, sports facilities, offices, arenas, schools, etc.