The house of champagne.fr” target=”_blank”>champagne EPC, thriving since its creation in 2019, recently reached a decisive milestone with the acquisition of the renowned family house Charles Mignon. This transaction not only highlights EPC’s growing ambition in the champagne industry but also brings together two distinct philosophies around shared values. By integrating Charles Mignon, a house rooted in the Champagne tradition founded in 1995, EPC benefits from an efficient production infrastructure and enhanced access to international markets. This marks a new era for EPC, which has already positioned itself as an innovative luxury brand, embodying modern practices while leveraging the rich terroir of Champagne.
Champagne EPC: a meteoric rise in the champagne industry
Since its inception, Champagne EPC has made a real splash in the world of champagne. The company, founded in 2019 after a fundraising of 1.5 million euros, quickly asserted itself through a bold strategy centered on transparency and direct consumer access. With a second fundraising of 5.5 million euros in 2022, EPC took decisive steps to position itself among the essential players in the sector.
The house’s vision relies on a modern image that illustrates its desire to stand out from traditional houses. It invests in digitalization, partnering with cooperatives and private cellars to ensure the supply of carefully selected grapes. This hybrid model not only boosts production but also the diversity of cuvées, thus allowing the purchase of a wide range of sparkling wines.
An unprecedented growth strategy
The foundation of Champagne EPC’s growth strategy rests on several key points:
- Transparency: Offering consumers a clear and honest view of production processes.
- Accessibility: Bringing champagne closer to consumers through diversified distribution channels.
- Strategic partnerships: Joining forces with local players to guarantee the quality of supplies.
- Innovation: Integrating modern technologies in the creation of cuvées.
- Targeted marketing: Tailoring communication campaigns according to market expectations.
This approach has enabled EPC to achieve exponential growth, especially internationally. Indeed, the house has already managed to enter more than 50 markets worldwide, ranging from European countries to Asian markets. In 2024, the declared goal of one million bottles produced now seems within reach, especially with the integration of Charles Mignon.
| Year | Fundraisings (€) | Production volume (bottles) | International Markets |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 | 1,500,000 | 150,000 | 5 |
| 2022 | 5,500,000 | 600,000 | 30 |
| 2024 | – | 1,000,000 (target) | 50+ |
The acquisition of Charles Mignon: a strategic turning point
The announcement of the acquisition of Charles Mignon represents a decisive turning point for Champagne EPC. Founded in Épernay in 1995, this family house is respected for the quality of its wines and its traditional practices. The integration of Charles Mignon provides EPC with direct access to state-of-the-art production facilities, as well as high-quality vineyards. The adoption of temperature-controlled stainless steel vats and small tanks for precision vinifications will allow EPC to further improve its cuvées.
Charles Mignon’s assets for EPC’s future
This acquisition is advantageous on several levels:
- Increase in production capacity: Thanks to Charles Mignon’s production tools, EPC can broaden its portfolio and adjust its volumes.
- Strengthening exports: Charles Mignon had already established solid relationships in international markets, with about 70% of its production oriented towards export.
- Experienced team: The Charles Mignon house has a competent team whose knowledge and skills will benefit EPC.
- Brand independence: Despite the integration, Charles Mignon will continue to be managed independently to preserve its identity and positioning.
The fact that the founders’ children, Guillaume and Manon, are involved in managing their name also ensures harmonious continuity and respect for the family heritage.
| Criteria | Charles Mignon | Champagne EPC |
|---|---|---|
| Year of creation | 1995 | 2019 |
| Type of production | Family | Modern and hybrid |
| Location | Épernay | Épernay |
| Export share | 70% | 50% (growing) |
The challenges of this integration for EPC
The integration of Charles Mignon carries challenges but also significant opportunities for Champagne EPC. The house will need to ensure clear, distinct communication regarding the identity of the two brands. Indeed, each house has its particularities, clients, and values that must be preserved. This is a delicate but essential task to continue building an exemplary reputation in the sector.
The implications are numerous, notably regarding:
- Brand strategy: Clearly differentiating the identity of Charles Mignon and EPC to avoid any confusion among consumers.
- Resource optimization: Harmonizing human and technological resources to make the best use of each entity’s skills.
- Know-how: Combining tradition and modernity to develop cuvées that will appeal to enthusiasts.
Growth prospects
The acquisition of Charles Mignon opens up expansion possibilities for Champagne EPC. The house plans to increase its production, with optimistic sales targets, notably for Asian markets where demand for sparkling wines continues to grow. Exports to destinations such as China and Japan are particularly promising, especially thanks to the reputation of champagne as a symbol of luxury and sophistication.
By joining forces, EPC and Charles Mignon are now better positioned to capture a larger share of the global market, especially as consumer trends show increasing interest in artisanal champagnes that evoke an authentic story and a strong connection to the terroir.
Support from iconic industry figures
The rapid development of Champagne EPC is also due to the attention and support from recognized professionals in the champagne world. Figures like Stéphane Baschiera, former CEO of Moët & Chandon, lend legitimacy to the young house and demonstrate its capacity to navigate the competitive champagne sector. The value of their expertise is undeniable, especially in an industry landscape marked by constant evolution and relentless innovation.
Benefits of expert support
The advantages of such interaction between EPC and industry figures include:
- Access to valuable networks: The opportunity to collaborate with other champagne houses and access established distribution channels.
- Strategic coherence: The chance to benefit from a strategic vision on product development and market expansion.
- Positive reputation: Increasing credibility with end consumers thanks to strong references.
- Resource sharing: Sharing best practices within the industry, thus promoting operational efficiency.
| Name | Position | Contribution |
|---|---|---|
| Stéphane Baschiera | Former CEO of Moët & Chandon | Strategic support |
| Lucile Lemoine | Champagne marketing expert | Brand awareness development |
| Alexandre Durand | Expert winemaker | Improvement of vinification processes |
FAQ
What is the impact of the acquisition of Charles Mignon on Champagne EPC’s production?
The acquisition allows Champagne EPC to increase its production capacity and obtain modern facilities, thus favoring the creation of new champagne cuvées.
Will Charles Mignon continue to operate independently?
Yes, Charles Mignon will maintain its identity and be managed independently, thereby respecting its family heritage while benefiting from the support of Champagne EPC.
How will this acquisition influence the exports of both brands?
Champagne EPC and Charles Mignon will be able to jointly strengthen their presence in international markets, facilitating access to new consumers worldwide.
Who are the iconic figures supporting Champagne EPC?
Recognized industry experts, such as Stéphane Baschiera, provide their expertise and credibility to Champagne EPC, contributing to its rise in the market.
What are Champagne EPC’s production goals for the coming years?
Champagne EPC aims to surpass the milestone of one million bottles produced by 2027, an ambition strengthened by the integration of Charles Mignon.