French entrepreneurs, Hong Kong fund compete to acquire Duralex glassware maker

The iconic French glassware manufacturer Duralex is the subject of a bidding war, with two French entrepreneurs and a Hong Kong-based investment fund submitting offers for its acquisition. The judicial administrator for the La Chapelle-Saint-Mesmin-based company announced Thursday that the deadline for submitting takeover bids has been extended to September 11.

Sources close to the matter and union representatives have identified the potential buyers. Cédric Meston, known for co-founding the plant-based meat substitute startup HappyVore and acquiring Tupperware France in 2025, is reportedly bidding through his holding company, Tomé. The Stéphanois group Carlesimo, which had previously expressed interest, has also submitted an offer.

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enable the candidate acquirers to refine their offers or even to emerge new candidacies

The third candidate is the Hong Kong-based company AA Investments, reportedly controlled by French businessman Morteza Goshayeshi and his family. This family group, which focuses on the international marketing of beauty products, perfumes, and consumer goods, recently acquired the home decor brand Bouchara in May.

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As of today, the initial commercial budget planned for 2026 is being met, with a strong acceleration of turnover in June and July, as well as the opening of new international markets

While Meston declined to comment, AA Investments and Carlesimo had not responded to requests for comment as of Friday. The extended deadline aims to allow candidates to refine their offers or potentially attract new bidders. Duralex's general director, Peggy Sadier, expressed satisfaction with the company's commercial performance and budget management during the observation period, noting a significant acceleration in revenue in June and July and the opening of new international markets.

The Commercial Court of Orléans is scheduled to review the offers during a hearing on September 17. Founded in 1945, Duralex was later acquired by its employees as a cooperative.

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of the good commercial performance and rigorous management of the cash budget during the observation period