Integrated annual report

The Group was created and operates on an original model: a sector-based organization, from seeds to processed products, in which each activity creates value for all links in the chain, in France and abroad.

For the past 40 years, Avril has relied on a unique model to structure the sectors and enhance the value of the production of the French Farm, creating value for all. Avril reinvests 100% of the value created in its own development and that of the industry, without paying dividends to its shareholders. This long-term vision, so specific to the agricultural world, enables the Group to manage the complex economic contexts that follow one another, while continuing to prepare for the future, through structuring investments and innovation.

It’s a virtuous model, focused on the future and the sustainability of the sectors, their production and their markets. It’s not just about sustainability, it’s about added value, through the collective development of ever more sustainable farming practices that not only feed people and animals in the best possible way, but also contribute to the challenges of decarbonization.

2023 was marked by geo-political events with significant effects on raw material prices, an economic recession in Europe and rising interest rates.

This context had consequences on sales volumes, but did not impact market share. Avril’s presence in several activities and several countries enables the Group to be resilient. As a result, in 2023 Avril achieved the third-best result in its history, and delivered a robust balance sheet that preserves its financial capacity to pursue its development.

In terms of extra-financial performance, the first cycle of the SPRING approach, which ended in 2023, has borne fruit. The results are in line with forecasts and have been positively recognized by third-party certifiers. The Group has therefore set ambitious targets for the next cycle, which will further integrate the commitments of the Serving the Earth raison d’être into the CSR approach and its evaluation.

With AMBITION 2030, we are preparing for the next decade. Now is the time to start mapping out our future direction. To this end, Avril will be investigating five new strategic options around topics that are key to the Group’s future: end-to-end environmental solutions for the agricultural value chain, intermediate crops, generative artificial intelligence, as well as food ingredients and biosourced products, where we already have a foothold with our start-ups Evertree, Olatein, Sunbloom Proteins and Vivien Paille.