La success story d’ASG34 avec Jérôme Lancelot

Summary

In this interview, Jérôme Lancelot, an entrepreneur with over two decades of experience, discusses his journey in the inflatable structure rental and sales business. He highlights the importance of service and long-term relationships with customers, emphasizing personalized products and hands-on customer support. Lancelot also shares insights into the challenges of entrepreneurship, from navigating complex regulations to maintaining a balance between work and personal life. He reflects on the value of networks like Réseau Entreprendre, focusing on collaboration and learning rather than business transactions. His passion for his craft and commitment to customer satisfaction shine through as he talks about the evolution of his business and future plans.

Takeaways

• 😀 The speaker, Jérôme Lancelot, has been an entrepreneur since the age of 21, now running a company specializing in inflatable structures for leisure and technical uses.
• 😀 Entrepreneurship, for Jérôme, is about maintaining independence, enjoying the freedom to work on what he loves, and being able to create and take risks.
• 😀 Despite challenges, including changing regulations and bureaucratic hurdles, Jérôme remains passionate about his business and finds joy in working with his team.
• 😀 Jérôme's business has seen steady growth, even during the COVID-19 pandemic, and he now employs 10 people, with plans to expand further.
• 😀 The company's core business involves renting, manufacturing, and selling inflatable structures, with a strong focus on customer service, offering personalized products and support.
• 😀 The current challenge for Jérôme's company is securing financing for a new building as the business has outgrown its current space.
• 😀 Jérôme finds fulfillment in offering personalized service, including detailed guidance on product care, repairs, and maintenance, which sets his company apart from competitors.
• 😀 Technology, including 3D software and digital tools, plays a role in the design and production process, but Jérôme's company still values craftsmanship, with much of the work done manually.
• 😀 Networking and knowledge exchange are crucial for Jérôme. While he limits his participation in business networks, he values communities like Réseau Entreprendre for personal and professional growth.
• 😀 Jérôme emphasizes the importance of long-term client relationships, aiming to provide consistent, high-quality service and build trust over time, rather than focusing on one-off sales.

Q & A

What is the key to success in entrepreneurship according to Jérôme Lancelot?

Jérôme believes the key to success in entrepreneurship is independence and the freedom to do what you want. Even though there are challenges, he enjoys the creativity, risk-taking, and leadership that come with owning a business.

How did Jérôme Lancelot start his business and how has it evolved?

Jérôme started his business at the age of 21 in a very small way, building from scratch. Over the years, his business has grown, and now they employ 10 staff members. He faced challenges but continued to grow, even through the COVID-19 pandemic.

What is the current challenge that Jérôme Lancelot is facing in his business?

The main challenge right now is obtaining financing for a new building. His current building has become too small for the growing business, and they are preparing to expand further.

What makes entrepreneurship fun for Jérôme Lancelot?

For Jérôme, entrepreneurship is fun because it offers the independence to make decisions, be creative, and take risks. He enjoys being in control and not needing an alarm clock to get to work, highlighting his passion for his business.

What does Jérôme find difficult in entrepreneurship today?

Jérôme finds the constant changes in regulations and legislation challenging. The numerous rules and norms that get added over time create obstacles for his business and can prevent them from earning more, despite the efforts of his team.

Why do customers buy Jérôme's inflatable structures?

Customers choose Jérôme's products not just for the inflatable structures themselves but for the service that comes with them. His company offers personalized support, maintenance advice, and long-term service, which differentiates them from competitors.

How does Jérôme's company handle product design and customization?

Jérôme's company focuses on handmade, customized inflatables. They use design software like SketchUp and Illustrator to create unique structures, and the final product is assembled manually, ensuring no two products are alike.

How does Jérôme perceive the role of technology in his business?

While Jérôme acknowledges the role of technology in aspects like design and cutting, he values the hands-on, artisanal approach in the manufacturing of inflatable structures. His business is still rooted in traditional craftsmanship despite using modern tools.

How does Jérôme manage customer relationships and ensure long-term satisfaction?

Jérôme emphasizes a service-oriented approach. His company offers personalized assistance, such as providing cleaning tips and ensuring customers understand how to maintain their products. This builds long-term relationships and loyalty.

What does Jérôme think about the importance of networks in entrepreneurship?

Jérôme is part of the 'Réseau Entreprendre' and 'Club Molière,' and values these networks for knowledge exchange and personal growth, rather than purely business-focused connections. He believes in supporting others and sharing experiences to foster collective learning.