Since 1911, Lemahieu Group has established itself as a leader in the import of timber and panels. What began as a local business has grown into an international player, now led by the fourth generation. We asked Mike Lemahieu to share his vision on the evolution of the timber and panel market, as well as the role of Lemahieu Group in this rapidly changing sector.

Lemahieu Group has been around since 1911. In your opinion, what is the key to this success?
“Our strength lies in continuity and expertise. We are a true family business. Our long history provides a solid foundation of experience, while we continue to invest in innovation and sustainability.” Over the years, the company has developed into a versatile player, equipped with extensive machinery for soaking, impregnation, fireproofing, planing, and sawing. It also has a production department specializing in ThermoWood® (LDCwood).

What sets Lemahieu Group apart in the market today?
“We combine a wide range of products with in-depth technical expertise. We support our customers – from timber and building materials traders to the wood industry – with advice and know-how, particularly for cladding, decking, and construction applications.” With annual imports of approximately 300,000 m³ of timber and panels and four strategically located sites in Belgium, the Netherlands, and France, Lemahieu Group has a solid logistical base and an international presence.

Innovation appears to be a key pillar within the company.
“Absolutely. We have invested heavily in fire-retardant treatment for cladding. We acquired an autoclave to treat wood, ThermoWood®, and Accoya with Burnblock® to make them fire-retardant, thus meeting increasingly stringent fire safety standards. Furthermore, we collaborate with innovative partners, such as GRAD and B-Fix, for invisible and aesthetically pleasing fastening solutions.” To best serve the French market, Lemahieu Group has a well-established local sales team that provides technical and commercial support to customers. The company is also making progress digitally, with a user-friendly online store that allows customers to easily check stock levels and track their orders.

A new milestone: Accoya distribution in France
Since 2024, Lemahieu Group has been an official partner of Medite Smartply for the distribution of Tricoya in Belgium, the Netherlands, and France. This innovative MDF panel is based on the same acetylation technology as Accoya and is distinguished by its exceptional durability, dimensional stability, and performance, making it particularly suitable for outdoor applications where conventional MDF reaches its limits.

You recently announced an expansion with Accoya in France?
“Yes, indeed. Since May, we have been authorized to distribute Accoya on the French market. This is an important step for us. Accoya is recognized worldwide for its durability and stability, and is an ideal complement to our existing range of cladding and decking solutions. Accoya recently launched a Decking Collection in natural and gray finishes. Our customers opt for a finished product with, for example, B-Fix, GRAD, S4S, or Hardwood Clip systems. The new Decking Collection display helps our customers showcase this collection to their own clientele.”

Looking to the future
With its recognized expertise in wood panels and processing, including ThermoWood® and Accoya, the Lemahieu Group remains ambitious.

How do you envision the future of the company?
“We want to remain a leading partner in the industry.” This means continuing to invest in our product range, technical expertise, and above all, our customers. Thanks to our long-term vision and strong partnerships, we are ready to meet the challenges of tomorrow.” With over a century of experience, and celebrating its 115th anniversary this year, a strong family heritage, and a clear focus on innovation and sustainability, Lemahieu Group confirms its role as an essential partner for wood and panel professionals – in France and far beyond.

Our French team:

- CÉDRIC GERMY Business Development LEMAHIEU Timber – LDCwood Wood Specialist, ThermoWood® +33 6 22 00 18 83 c.germy@lemahieu.be
- OLIVIER VAN DAMME Panel Specialist +32 473 93 73 96 o.vandamme@lempan.be
- ARNAUD DE LA VILLARMOIS Panel, Wood, ThermoWood® Specialist +33 6 23 05 27 69 a.delavillarmois@lemahieu.be
- FABRICE PUISILLOUT Panel, Wood, ThermoWood® Specialist +33 (0)6 12 97 69 18 f.puisillout@lemahieu.be
- STÉPHANE OLIVIER Panel, Wood, ThermoWood® Specialist +33 6 40 73 11 79 s.olivier@lemahieu.be

Stand B19-Hall XXL

Photo credits: Lemahieu

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