Épicerie Synature is a French fine grocery store based in Reims, specializing in locally sourced and artisanal food products. With a focus on sustainability, traceability, and regional authenticity, the company curates a range of premium gourmet offerings from France’s most esteemed producers. Positioned as a modern épicerie fine, Épicerie Synature supports short supply chains and promotes the rich gastronomic heritage of France.
Brief History
Épicerie Synature was founded with the vision of reconnecting consumers with transparent, traceable food sources. Located in the historic city of Reims—renowned for its culinary and cultural heritage—the store has established itself as a go-to destination for discerning food lovers seeking high-quality, ethically produced goods. Since its inception, the company has focused on highlighting independent French producers and small-scale artisans.
Core Business
The store operates with a dual focus on retail and local food advocacy:
- Retail Sale of Gourmet Food: Offering a curated selection of dry goods, beverages, and specialty grocery items.
- Support for Local Producers: Partnering with regional suppliers to reduce food miles and ensure direct sourcing.
- Sustainability Advocacy: Promoting packaging reuse, compostable materials, and waste reduction.
Product and Service Offerings
Artisanal and Local Grocery Products
- Flours and Cereals: From mills like Moulin de Signy, stone-ground and organic
- Biscuits and Confectionery: Including La Trinitaine galettes, Maison d’Armorine salted caramels
- Coffee and Teas: Organic, fair trade, and small-batch roasted beans and loose-leaf blends
- Pasta and Rice: Regional French wheat pasta and Camargue rice
- Sweet Spreads: Jams, honeys, and nut butters from family-owned French farms
- Savory Delicacies: Terrines, tapenades, and mustards
- Zero-Waste Options: Refill station for grains, seeds, and oils
Specialisation and USP
- 100% Local and French-Sourced: Prioritizes suppliers within France, focusing on regional producers from Champagne, Brittany, Occitanie, and the Rhône-Alpes.
- Sustainable Packaging: Encourages returnable jars and bags, with a zero-waste purchasing program in-store.
- Ethical Curation: All products are vetted for fair labor, non-industrial processing, and minimal ecological impact.
- Community Involvement: Regular partnerships with local farmers’ markets, tasting events, and cooking demonstrations.
Financial and Operational Insights
While private financial records are not disclosed, performance indicators and customer engagement reflect a growing footprint:
- Estimated Annual Sales (2023): €250,000–€350,000 (based on local épicerie averages and premium positioning)
- SKUs Offered: Over 500 unique gourmet items sourced from more than 80 local producers
- Repeat Customer Rate: Estimated 60–70% based on in-store visits and newsletter signups
Export and Distribution
Although primarily focused on in-store and regional distribution, Épicerie Synature has begun exploring:
- Local Delivery: Within Reims and surrounding areas using electric bike services
- E-commerce: Select SKUs available for national shipping within France
- Partnerships with Regional Tourism: Collaborative product hampers for Reims-based heritage tours and events
Target Market
- Local consumers: Eco-conscious buyers seeking sustainable and local food alternatives
- Gastronomy enthusiasts: Those looking for high-quality, French terroir-based ingredients
- Tourism-related clientele: International visitors interested in authentic regional products
- Health-conscious shoppers: Individuals preferring organic, non-industrial, and additive-free food
Capabilities
- Multi-Brand Representation: Collaborates with well-known artisanal French brands like La Maison d’Armorine and Moulin de Signy
- Flexible Packaging Options: Bulk refill, recyclable glass, and paper-based alternatives available
- Tasting Events and Workshops: Educational experiences to promote food transparency and culinary heritage
- Local Producer Support: Streamlined procurement processes to help small producers access urban retail
Certifications and Compliance
- Organic Labels: A significant portion of offerings are certified AB (Agriculture Biologique) and EU Organic
- Local Artisan Certification: Select products carry AOP, AOC, or Label Rouge indicators
- Zero Waste Partnership: Member of local environmental initiatives promoting packaging reuse and food circularity
Customer Testimonials
“Épicerie Synature is a hidden gem in Reims. Their commitment to sustainable and delicious products makes shopping here both ethical and delightful.”
— Local Customer Review (2023)
“We love collaborating with Épicerie Synature for our hotel guest packages. Their curated selections offer the perfect taste of Champagne region.”
— Boutique Hotel Manager, Reims (2022)
Major Achievements
- Over 80 regional producers supported through long-term procurement relationships
- Introduced zero-waste grocery model to central Reims with refill stations in 2022
- Product integration into local tourism with curated “Taste of Reims” hampers for hotels and tour operators
- Featured in regional gastronomy guides and sustainability newsletters in Grand Est region
Summary
Épicerie Synature exemplifies a modern, sustainable approach to gourmet retail by prioritizing local sourcing, ethical partnerships, and eco-friendly operations. Through its dedication to quality, community, and transparency, the company is reshaping how fine food is bought, experienced, and appreciated in France.
