Our history

59 YEARS OF HISTORY

1959

Groupe Roullier is founded on the quays of the port town of Saint-Malo (Brittany, France).
The group establishes TIMAC (Center for Studies and Applied Research), our first facility for grinding maerl, whose particular charcateristics make it the ideal conditioner for acidic soils.

1963

In addition to maerl, the Group starts producing GAFSA phosphate, whose distinct qualities make it the world's best phosphate for direct application. At the same time, we begin accelerating our commercial growth in France via the recruitment of TSAs (Technical Sales Agents), who visit farms on behalf of the distribution team.

1971

The Group adds potassium and phosphates to complete its product range.

1974

Construction of the first granulation factory in Saint-Malo (Brittany, France).

1979

First industrial facilities opened in Morocco, Tunisia, Austria, Canada, Uruguay, Argentina, Chile and Brazil. The Group's internationalisation phase is well and truly underway. 

1984

Acquisition of our first research laboratory in Spain.

1988

Launch of our new business line: Plastics. Creation of a new research laboratory in Pontrieux (Brittany, France).

1989

The Group accelerates the development of new products derived from natural marine substances and begins to diversify into the food industry sector.

1993

Acquisition of a major wholesaler in Cognac (Charente, France), allowing the group to expand into the retail gardening products market (FLORENDI).

1997

Groupe Roullier begins to establish operations in Brazil via the acquisition of a fertilizer factory in Rio Grande, which will go on to become the Group's largest granulation facility.

2000

Acquisition of a magnesium mine and factory in Spain.

2003

The Group establishes Tunisia's first food phosphates factory, enabling it to maintain a global commercial presence in this sector.

2005

Creation of CERA (Centre for Studies and Applied Research). Based in Dinard, France, CERA is the result of the Group's desire to bring together expertise in industrial process research to benefit its business lines and enhance synergy between teams. The only one of its kind in the world, the centre's facilities include an analysis laboratory and a pilot plant - a fully adjustable small-scale replica of a working plant.

2011

Entry into a joint venture with shipbuilding company Louis Dreyfus Armateur for the construction of four 40,000-tonne cargo ships for the transportation of raw materials.

2012

Joint venture in a Brazilian magnesium mine.

2013

The Group expands existing operations in Africa and China and now boasts a sales force of 2,300 employees across the world.

2014

The Group produces 5 million tonnes of finished product across its Animal and Plant Nutrition business lines.

2015

Opening of the Global Innovation Centre on the quays of Saint-Malo (Brittany, France).