Our history
French manufacturer since 1925
Aldes, originally known as Atelier Lyonnais d'Emboutissage Spécial, was founded in Lyon in 1925 by Bernard Lacroix. The company began its journey in the stamping and manufacturing of metal ventilation grilles. Today, the third generation of the Lacroix family is leading the company in the development and marketing of integrated solutions for building and home well-being, continuing the legacy of innovation set by their predecessors and expanding internationally
Since 1925, Aldes has been improving indoor air quality...
A multi-brand group
The Aldes Group, through its various brands, operates in several fields including ventilation, heating, air cooling, domestic hot water production, centralized vacuum systems, aeraulic components, smoke extraction and services. The group's strategy and growth is based on its ability to anticipate consumer demands for comfort and regulatory changes related to energy impact, and to offer global, innovative and high-performance solutions.
Relive the History!
1925 - 1965: Creation and development
In 1925, ALDES was founded by Alfred Feuga and Jules Juthy, two pioneers of the metalworking industry. From the outset, the company stood out for its ability to transform metals and for its relentless innovation. In the midst of industrial reconstruction, ALDES acquired Mr Roch's licence for ventilation equipment, a decisive turning point. Despite the storms of the Great Depression and the Second World War, ALDES diversified and grew, becoming a key player in the ventilation sector. In 1955, the company expanded with the acquisition of a vast site in Vénissieux, marking the start of a new era of growth and innovation.
1965 - 1970: A new lease of life
In 1967, Bruno Lacroix joined the company, bringing with him a wave of modernisation and creativity. ALDES obtains an exclusive licence for self-regulating air inlets and extract units, ushering in a new era of innovation. In 1968, the creation of the Sales Engineering Department enables ALDES to strengthen its technical expertise and better serve its customers. The company produced its first pressed metal air intake, an industrial feat that marked a crucial stage in its expansion.
1970s: Expansion and crisis
The 1970s were marked by dazzling growth, fuelled by the development of social housing in France. ALDES diversified into mechanical ventilation and launched revolutionary innovations such as double flow with opposed flow exchangers. Despite the oil crises, the company maintained its growth and strengthened its product quality culture. In 1974, the creation of the Development Research Department and the Ventilation Division testifies to ALDES' commitment to innovation and excellence.
1980s: Development and expansion
ALDES continues to grow, opening sales offices in France and abroad, notably with American ALDES and ALDES Canada.
The acquisition of SGEI in 1984 enabled ALDES to position itself in the fire protection market. The company adopts cutting-edge technologies, such as the first industrial cutting laser, thereby strengthening its production capacity and technological leadership.
1990s: The big step
In the 1990s, ALDES refocused on ventilation and centralised extraction, divesting itself of its stamping business to concentrate more on innovation.
The company continued to push back the boundaries with products such as the self-adjusting plastic air vent.
In 1995, ALDES completes the acquisition of its property in Vénissieux and opens its 17th branch in Montpellier, demonstrating its constant expansion and global vision.
2000s: The turning point in thermal comfort
ALDES turns the corner on thermal comfort with the launch of the Temperation range, a revolutionary thermodynamic double flow system. The company restructures internationally and builds a new logistics platform in Mions (69), called Logist'air. In 2009, the integration of AIRPAC strengthens ALDES' range of thermal comfort solutions, consolidating its position as an innovative leader.
2010: New acquisitions
ALDES strengthens its presence in North America with the acquisition of AIR 2000 and RIBO.
In 2011, Bruno Lacroix hands over the reins to his son Stanislas Lacroix, marking a new stage in the company's history.
In 2013, ALDES launched COSITEC, a network of approved and qualified installers, and in 2016, the acquisition of EXHAUSTO enabled ALDES to enter the air handling unit market. The company continues to grow despite the economic challenges, always driven by its spirit of innovation.
2020s: Incorporating the unexpected
The COVID-19 pandemic poses new challenges, but ALDES adapts quickly and launches new air purification solutions. In 2020, the ETNA project simplifies processes and installs a new information system. In 2021, the company continues to reinvent itself with products such as the innovative ALANA air purifier. In 2022, ALDES acquires AERECO and signs a partnership agreement with HISENSE, strengthening its thermal comfort offering.
Under the management of the third Lacroix generation, ALDES continues to expand through innovation and international development.
True to its family values, the company remains committed to improving air quality and thermal comfort, while adapting to the challenges of the future. In 2025, the ALDES Group will have 21 subsidiaries in 15 countries, as well as a network of partners representing the brand in some forty other countries.
