For the past two years, we have worked closely with the Murgier group to ensure the distribution of our iconic Burgundy wines across the Rhône-Alpes region, from Dijon to Valence. We recently chatted with Nicolas Garnier, the group’s wine manager, who shared this family business's fascinating trajectory.
Founded in 1936, Murgier, from the family’s eponymous surname, has rapidly grown within the French entrepreneurial scene through focus and specialization. Initially centered around the distribution of the Lyon region, the group has spread its scope to the Rhône-Alpes region, opening 11 different sites across the territory. This impressive growth allowed the company to reinforce its leading position in the French Alps and Lyon while focusing on the distribution of beverages. Today, Murgier generates a remarkable turnover of 100 million euros and benefits from a portfolio of more than 5,500 clients.
Despite the recent challenges, especially the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic affecting the entire beverage industry, the group has navigated successfully thanks to the significant development of mountain activities. “Some of our sites doubled their turnovers in less than 3 years,” clarifies Nicolas, who continues: “The professionalization of the hospitality and catering industries in the Alps can explain this.”
In charge of developing the group’s wine activity, he insists on the importance of premium partnerships. This philosophy is advocated by the company’s CEO, Erik Murgier, and across the different teams. “For the sales part, we adopted a particular approach to build true relationships with our clients,” confirms Nicolas. He adds: “Our sales teams are continuously trained on wine with the WSET programs, for example, or on gastronomy with the Paul Bocuse Institute.” The French wine market is going through a premiumization, a shift that the Groupe Murgier has been able to anticipate and respond to. Burgundy wines, in particular, generate a substantial interest that reflects the increased demand for quality wines.
Regarding social responsibility, Nicolas Garnier underlines the group’s commitment to sustainability. The company uses electric trucks and has launched recycling programs internally and with partners.
All in all, the story of the Murgier group not only illustrates the success of a family business generation after generation but also shows its capacity to adapt to the market’s changes while remaining true to its core values of quality, service, and sustainability.
