Early Life
The Vicat Group's history begins with Louis Vicat's invention of artificial cement in 1817. His son, Joseph Vicat, inspired by his father's work, founded the Vicat company in 1853. Joseph aimed to industrialize the production of artificial cement, establishing the first industrial plant in Genevrey-de-Vif, France. The company was later incorporated as SNC Ciments Merceron-Vicat et Cie in 1863.
Rise to Success
Vicat has grown into a global leader in construction materials. The company expanded in 1922 with the construction of its first two large-scale cement production sites in France. Major expansion began in 1968 with the construction of another plant and with a program of acquisitions throughout France. In 1974, overseas investment began with the acquisition of National Cement at Ragland, Alabama. The family remains the company's largest shareholder.
Key Business Strategies
Vicat's core business is cement manufacturing, complemented by concrete and aggregate activities. The company has focused on strategic expansion through acquisitions and, more recently, by building Greenfield factories. Vicat operates in three principal business segments: Cement, Ready-Mixed Concrete, and Aggregates. The company has also expanded its operations into complementary activities.
Philanthropy
Vicat supports policies implemented by local governments and offers initiatives that respond to specific needs. The company supports education by providing improved learning conditions and merit-based scholarships. In India, Vicat founded a socio-medical center near its Kalburgi cement plant.