SMAAART

SMAAART operates within the circular economy as a key French player in the electronic device refurbishment market. The company, a brand of SOFI Groupe, was established in 2017 and has since become a significant part of Econocom Group following a majority stake acquisition in April 2022. This strategic move was designed to leverage SOFI Groupe's industrial capabilities to meet the growing demand for reconditioned equipment from both public and private organizations. The acquisition, valued at a reported 20 million euros, integrated SMAAART's 3,200-square-meter factory located near Montpellier.

The company's business model is centered on extending the life of electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops. This is achieved through a meticulous, locally-based refurbishment process conducted entirely in their French workshops. The process involves rigorous testing to ensure all phones are 100% functional, unlocked, and cleared of previous data, with battery autonomy certified to meet manufacturer standards. Upon completion, the refurbished phones are packaged with new headphones and chargers. This approach serves a diverse clientele, including individuals, businesses, and distributors, offering a more affordable and environmentally responsible alternative to purchasing new devices. Customers can acquire smartphones for 30% to 50% less than new ones, contributing to an 80% reduction in environmental impact compared to a new purchase.

SMAAART's operations are guided by a strong eco-responsible and social commitment, functioning as a mission-led company ("entreprise à mission"). Their industrial process and technical expertise are now assets for Econocom's Technology Management & Financing (TMF) division, allowing for the internalization and expansion of refurbished equipment volumes. In 2021, SMAAART reported revenues of 21 million euros, having processed nearly 120,000 smartphones. The company's leadership, including Jean-Christophe Estournel and Marlène Taurines, remained in their roles post-acquisition to ensure continuity.

Keywords: refurbished electronics, circular economy, smartphone refurbishment, electronics recycling, sustainable technology, Econocom Group, French tech, eco-responsible, mission-led company, device lifecycle management, reconditioned devices, IT asset disposition, consumer electronics, B2B electronics, electronics retail, environmental impact reduction, SOFI Groupe, Jean-Christophe Estournel