Our story
With a history dating back more than 170 years, Marck & Balsan has been able, over time, to maintain its know-how by diversifying its business.
2021
MARCK & BALSAN
The merger
Grouping of Groupe Marck and its subsidiaries under the same identity: Marck & Balsan
Find out about Marck & Balsan
2018
Marck & Balsan
Merger-absorption of VTN by Balsan
The Balsan company becomes Groupe Marck's major industrial centre: Merger-absorption of VTN by Balsan.
2015
Groupe Marck
Regional protection
Launch of the Sentinel company dedicated to equipping Regional Security (Municipal Police, traffic wardens (ASVP) and wildlife rangers) as well as Private Security and Fire services.
2014
Groupe Marck
Peacekeeping
Launch of the OMP Solutions group, dedicated to equipping UN forces (in partnership with Engie).
Find out about OMP solutions
2012
Marck & Balsan
Arrival of Balsan
Groupe Marck speeds up its growth by acquiring Balsan, thus becoming a major player on the markets of uniforms for public authorities, private companies and associated services.
1950 - 2012
Groupe Marck
The group expands
Groupe Marck completes its know-how with the creation and acquisition of leading companies in their fields (trimmings, uniforms, marine structures, etc.).
1956
Balsan
Textile serving wearer safety
Creation of VTN Industries (Vêtements des Temps Nouveaux), a pioneer in personal protective equipment and technical textiles.
1914
Balsan
First World War
During the First World War, Balsan developed the “light blue” cloth and made the new uniforms of French infantry soldiers.
Early 20th century
Groupe Marck
From headgear to uniforms
The company quickly focuses its offer on the design and marketing of full uniforms for public authorities and especially armies.
1859
Balsan
Royal Factory of Châteauroux
Pierre Balsan buys the Royal Cloth Factory of Châteauroux (Manufacture Royale de Draps de Châteauroux) and becomes the traditional supplier of the French army (Balsan subsidiary).
1850
Groupe Marck
A family-owned company
Creation of the family company, Marck, specialising in the manufacture of embroidered items for tailors.