HISTORIC BASTIDE MOLINARD

Maison Molinard is one of France's oldest perfumeries. Its eaux de parfum and eaux de Cologne have spanned more than a century and a half of history. Located in the perfume capital of France, it has been awarded the Entreprise du Patrimoine Vivant (Living Heritage Company) distinction.

History. In the heart of the picturesque town of Grasse, Maison Molinard has etched its name in the history of perfumery since its foundation in 1849. Its modest beginnings in the manufacture of eaux de fleurs and eaux de Cologne were the prelude to a dazzling expansion. As early as 1860, the House unveiled emblematic fragrances such as "Jasmin", "Rose", "Mimosa" and "Violette", each nestled in timelessly elegant bottles crafted from Baccarat's renowned crystal. The year 1900 marks a major turning point with the Maison's move into a former perfume factory, whose distillery structure bears the signature of the famous engineer Gustave Eiffel. It was here that Molinard's essence blended with Provençal charm, welcoming an affluent clientele including wealthy foreigners from England and Russia. The year 1921 goes down in the annals of creation with the launch of two flagship products that are still popular today: Habanita, known as "the perfume for cigarettes", and Concréta, the first solid essence to use directly the vegetable wax of flowers. Encouraged by these successes, Maison Molinard called on renowned artists such as René Lalique and Viard to bring to life bottles of unparalleled splendor. During the Roaring Twenties, the Baccarat crystal works also offered their expertise, creating exceptional pieces for Molinard, despite the tumult of the Second World War, during which the famous "Colis du prisonnier" was born. In this way, Molinard remains a pillar of the perfume industry, brilliantly combining tradition and innovation over the decades, to the delight of fragrance lovers the world over.

The products. In addition to fragrances, beauty products such as micellar water and shaving cream, as well as scented candles.

Employment. Nearly six million euros in sales per year for some forty employees.