Declercq Passementiers launches crowdfunding to save endangered craft

Founded in 1852, Declercq Passementiers, a French passementerie manufacturer whose works adorn châteaux and presidential palaces, has launched a crowdfunding campaign on Ulule to secure its future. The company faces financial strain from post-COVID supply chain issues, rising tariffs, and the loss of Russian and Ukrainian markets. A tribunal de commerce will assess its continuation plan on May 20. The campaign, inspired by the Émaux de Longwy, raised €19,000 in its first week against a €15,000 goal. Director Jérôme Declercq, who succeeded his father 14 years ago, runs the family business with his sister, brother, wife, and daughter Margot. The firm employs 22 people, has a €2 million turnover, a Paris showroom, and a 2,000 m² workshop in Montreuil-aux-Lions (Aisne). It contributed to the restoration of the king's private chamber at Versailles, a 1,200-hour project begun in 2015. Clients include national museums, renowned decorators, and the Mobilier national. The company seeks funds for loom maintenance, improved working conditions, new collections, and potentially acquiring its own dyeing facility.