Economic Vitality Sets the Stage at the 22nd Annual Chamber Awards
The Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Haute-Loire hosted its 22nd annual business awards on September 24, 2026. The ceremony celebrated six local companies for economic dynamism, innovation, and sustainable practices.
The department maintains an unemployment rate of 5.6%—ranking among the lowest in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. This performance is backed by roughly 19,400 economic establishments and 2,600 annual business creations, according to CCI Haute-Loire data.
Hospitality and Export Excellence Drive Regional Recognition
Artémis Hôtel & Restaurant in Vieille-Brioude secured the tourism development prize. Family-managed by Marie-Claire, Maxime, Viviane Chardonnal, and Pierre Bioud, the property offers lodging and dining services for professional and leisure travelers. The business supports regional tourism by drawing visitors from across France and sustaining local hospitality jobs in the Brivadois basin.
Meanwhile, Yssingeaux-based Saveurs des Sucs won the international horizon category for its artisanal brand, La Vertueuse. The company produces liqueurs, syrups, infusions, and craft beers, overseeing its entire production chain from raw fruit and plant selection to final bottling. The firm distributes traditional flavors beyond departmental borders while preserving regional gastronomic heritage.
Tradition Meets Expansion in Local Commerce and Industry
Maison Massardier of Saint-Didier-en-Velay received the sustainable development award for its multi-generational charcuterie production. Specializing in dry sausages, terrines, and local pork products, the firm operates its own production facility adhering to traditional curing methods and strict traceability standards. The business has earned multiple agricultural competition medals for its Auvergne cured meats.
Vins Marcon in Saint-Bonnet-le-Froid took home the proximity economy prize. Led by Johannès Marcon, the historic wine merchant expanded into a network of eight franchised cellars across Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes and added an integrated retail corner inside an Yssingeaux hypermarket. The business recently renovated its headquarters in Saint-Bonnet-le-Froid to include an expanded tasting and sales space.
Centennial Manufacturing and Digital Innovation Complete the Honors
Centennial manufacturer Vial Frères, founded in 1920 in Dunières, earned the industrial development prize. Specializing in custom fasteners and hot-dip galvanizing surface treatments, the firm supplies high-requirement sectors including civil engineering, energy, transportation, and aerospace. Since its 2014 ownership transition, the company has modernized its forging and machining operations to improve competitiveness and secure major supply contracts.
Finally, City Buro & Print in Le Puy-en-Velay captured the public choice trophy. Directed by Karina Pagès, the visual communication agency partnered with Sandra Barthélémy to integrate NFC chips and 3D printing into connected promotional items, such as keychains and figurines that link users to digital business cards or emergency medical profiles. The company provides graphic design, signage, and printing services alongside its new tech product line.
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