Since 1998, he has experienced it all at INFACO: the beginnings as a craftsman, phases of expansion, trips to the other side of the world and today the passing on of knowledge.
Through the eyes of Laurent Rigal, support technician and former technical sales representative, we discover the driving forces behind the company's history: the human link, the field and the relationship of trust built up with the distribution network.
When Laurent joined INFACO at the end of the 90s, the company had barely fifteen employees. He started out as an after-sales technician in the workshop, in charge of repairing electric pruning shears. For ten years or so, he learnt about the products, the techniques and the mechanics. The company wasn't yet structured in the way it is today: "you had to touch everything, it was a learning experience".
He then became a technical sales representative, a position he held for 17 years. In the field, he became the link between INFACO and its network of distributors, both in France and abroad. "This dual role - technical and commercial - enabled me to better understand the needs of our distributors and customers, and to provide them with practical solutions.
What does he remember from this period? Human relationships above all. "I've made a lot of friends, and even some friends. The links that have been created are strong, based on mutual aid and goodwill: it goes far beyond being a supplier, "we are partners".
INFACO maintains a long-term relationship with its distributors, based on listening and closeness. Feedback from the field feeds directly into product developments: the design office, after-sales service, quality, everyone exchanges ideas. "That's why our tools are always in tune with the needs of professionals.
Laurent is also proud of his long-standing dealers, who have been loyal to the company since the very beginning. "We've seen them grow, we've supported them and they too have contributed to our success. Some of them still follow us to trade shows, like Sitevi. That's great.
INFACO is not just about the Tarn. It's also a French brand that is exported to over 40 countries. Laurent has been lucky enough to travel to around twenty of them, particularly in Asia. "I was impressed by Japan, South Korea... It's with great pride that we look at our pruning shears being used on the other side of the world. We take a bit of France, a bit of Cahuzac-sur-Vère, with us wherever we go.
Today, Laurent is a support technician in a sedentary position. He remains at the heart of the link with distributors, but by telephone or email. He continues to solve day-to-day problems, provide training and offer advice.
Even though he retired a few years ago, Dany Delmas remains in the minds of many of us. Laurent speaks of him with a mixture of respect and admiration. "If it wasn't for Dany, we wouldn't be here today. What he has built is impressive. It's a real empire. After 28 years of loyalty, Laurent looks to the future with serenity and hopes to finish his career with INFACO.
**
Join us very soon for episode 7 of our special 40th anniversary series, with an interview with Greg Alvarez on quality and Guaranteed French Origin! To celebrate our anniversary, the company's key figures look back at its history, from the very first Electrocoup to flagship models such as the F3010, F3015 and F3020.
It's called "INFACO, the series" and it's broadcast all year round on our website and social networks in 11 episodes!
👉 Subscribe to our newsletter for exclusive content!
It was Daniel Delmas, founder of INFACO, who invented in 1984 the world’s very first electric pruning shear: the Electrocoup. Since then, INFACO has never stopped innovating, with iconic models such as the F3015 and the F3020, as well as technological advances like ever more efficient lithium batteries.
The link between INFACO and its distributors makes it possible to stay very close to the end users. They are the ones who share their expectations, field constraints, or suggestions for improvement. These exchanges feed the internal teams (after-sales service, design office, quality) and make it possible to design tools such as the INFACO Electrocoup F3020 or the F3015 pruning shear, which are increasingly adapted to their needs. This constant dialogue has been the strength of the INFACO brand for more than 40 years.
Choosing an INFACO electric pruning shear means opting for a historic French company, pioneer of the battery-powered pruning shear with the very first Electrocoup launched in 1984. It also means benefiting from a renowned after-sales service, readily available spare parts, products designed to last, and a network of continuously trained distributors. From the compact kit to the medium kit, each tool is designed to optimize cutting, improve ergonomics, and ensure high working capacity with reduced weight. INFACO stands for commitment, loyalty, and performance.
INFACO focuses on continuous training, field demonstrations, and close technical support. Each dealer benefits from educational tools, after-sales advice, and can offer their customers optimal use of INFACO electric pruning shears. Whether it’s the Electrocoup F3020 model or its accessories (vests, gloves, poles, etc.), INFACO is committed to ensuring the best long-term user experience.