Sodebo, a long-standing commitment to the Vendée community
In 1998, although Sodebo was the market leader, the brand was not very well known. In the midst of the 1998 World Cup, Sodebo's managers noticed the growing interest in sport among the French. What if a commitment to sport could strengthen the brand's image with as many people as possible? In the months that followed, the two founders, Simone and Joseph Bougro, met Thomas Coville.
The chemistry between them was almost immediate: Sodebo launched itself into ocean racing alongside the sailor. This long adventure included participation in the Vendée Globe, where Thomas Coville came 6th in 2000. Although the Sodebo team then turned its attention to multihull racing, everyone in the company was able to witness the enthusiasm surrounding the most famous of round-the-world races. This is especially true for a company whose head office is located in Saint-Georges-de-Montaigu, in Vendée, very close to Les Sables d'Olonne, which makes the Vendée Globe even more attractive to employees.
Brand awareness multiplied by twelve nationwide
When the three daughters of the founders took over the management of the company in 2000, the aim was to continue to develop in France. Becoming a partner of the Vendée Globe was therefore an obvious choice, and it became effective in 2004. It's one of the biggest sporting events in France,’ explains the company. The Vendée Globe brings together a wide variety of sailors, men and women with incredible destinies. Being part of this adventure was the right bet’.
The partnerships have enabled Sodebo to raise its brand awareness twelvefold. Within the company, they also applaud the complementary nature of the sporting project and its racing programme, which takes it all over France on the one hand and the Vendée Globe on the other. ‘There are no major trimaran races organised in the Vendée, so it's particularly complementary. Since then, Sodebo has broadened its horizons by also supporting Stade Rochelais (rugby) and an eSport team.
The Vendée Globe, a popular celebration and a great in-house event
In the Vendée Globe village, Sodebo will have a 250 m2 area with numerous events planned. The company will also be offering its Sodebox, an immersive box that will enable visitors to relive the brand's sailing adventure through a film. A catering area will also be set up in the press room for journalists. Even though he will be on stand-by to attempt the Jules Verne Trophy (the record for a crewed round-the-world voyage in an Ultim starting from Brest), Thomas Coville will be able to take part in a number of events in the village.
Finally, this commitment to the Vendée Globe is also a unifying moment for Sodebo staff. Some of the 2,800 employees will be manning the stand, giving them the opportunity to experience the Vendée Globe in a special way, thanks to the support of the Sodebo team. It's an opportunity to experience the Vendée Globe in a special way and to provide visitors with a unique experience.
