Several generations of Toulouse families keep the business of the Pink City alive. These brands, which have become institutions, have been able to retain customers and look to the future.
How to succeed in a transmission and pass on a know-how? At the time of the big brands, figure of the liberal economy, several Toulouse family businesses have been able to meet this challenge successfully. These activities, which have become family sagas over time, have embraced the future while respecting the past of a commercial heritage. Following the example of Conté pastry created in 1938 rue Croix-Baragnon in Toulouse, now run by Joanna, the founder’s great-granddaughter. “With small steps” the young woman knew “to modify” certain aspects of the past allowing her to approach the future serenely “to succeed in this transition, it is necessary both to know how to listen and to make your place”.
In an economic context that has become complicated and competition is fierce, it is not always easy for an old business to last over time and in particular to adopt new sales techniques. The young generation must anticipate this transmission and be informed in order to face the economic challenges. Like Emma from the restaurant Imperial, at the Victor-Hugo market, the founder’s granddaughter: “I attended a business school in London to learn the tricks of marketing. It helps me a lot to meet the challenges”.
The sign To the Perfect Gardener, founded in 1862 rue de Metz by Joséphine and Albert, is preparing to welcome the 5th generation with Jérémy. “When the Truffaut brand arrived in the street, we were worried, admits Thierry, grandson of the founder. In fact, we questioned ourselves, reviewed certain things and everyone found their place”.
The duration of these institutions also reassures customers, “they feel a bit at home”, dares to say Géraldine Desablens, in charge with Michaël from the drugstore Marty Roubichou, founded in 1806 rue du Languedoc. Personalized advice and common sense are strong assets for these long-term businesses.
Laurence and Thierry: They know how to cultivate their garden
Michaël and Géraldine: maintenance from floor to ceiling
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