Gautier Furniture, a family-owned manufacturer in Vendée with a 65-year history, narrowly avoided bankruptcy thanks to an unexpected ally: French NBA star Rudy Gobert. The company, led by the Soulard siblings, had struggled under rising raw material costs and global economic uncertainty, ultimately filing for receivership in July 2024. Months of uncertainty followed, putting the future of the iconic furniture maker in jeopardy.
© Gautier Furniture
The Soulards, who had long supported local talent, had previously backed Gobert when he was an 18-year-old prospect with Cholet Basket. Remembering this early support, Gobert stepped in as a major investor, providing crucial financial backing to help stabilise the company. Alongside contributions from other prominent local business leaders, his intervention allowed Gautier Furniture to avoid collapse and continue operations.
This story highlights not only the resilience of a family-run business but also the power of long-term relationships and community solidarity in times of crisis. For Gautier, Gobert's support is more than just financial, it symbolises a full-circle moment of trust and loyalty, reinforcing the importance of investing in people as much as in business.
Thanks to this timely intervention, Gautier Furniture can now focus on rebuilding, continuing to craft high-quality products, and preserving its legacy as a cornerstone of Vendée's manufacturing sector.
Source: www.lanouvellerepublique.fr
More information:
Gautier Furniture
www.gautier-furniture.com
