The Nicollin Group, a family-owned waste management company headquartered in Montpellier, France, is being put up for sale, according to multiple French media reports. The company, founded in 1945 by Jean Nicollin, has grown into a major player in the French waste collection and recycling industry, employing thousands of people across the country.
The decision to sell comes amid financial difficulties and internal family disputes over succession. The group's current chairman, Laurent Nicollin, has been at the helm since the death of his father, Louis Nicollin, in 2017. However, the company has faced increasing competition and rising costs, which have put pressure on its profitability.
According to reports, the group has hired investment banks to explore a sale, and several potential buyers, including international waste management giants, have expressed interest. The sale is expected to be completed by the end of 2026, with the family retaining a minority stake.
The Nicollin Group is also known for its ownership of the Montpellier Hérault Sport Club (MHSC), a Ligue 1 football club. The club's future remains uncertain, as the sale of the group could impact its ownership structure.
Local politicians and employees have expressed concern about the potential impact on jobs and the company's headquarters in Montpellier. The group employs around 10,000 people in France, with a significant portion based in the Occitanie region.
