A couple deeply rooted in Brittany’s oyster farming heritage, Frédérique and Arnaud Le Trionnaire, have taken over Aquatonale, the marine biotechnology company that was placed in judicial liquidation late in 2025. They acquired the business at the start of this year, with a priority on safeguarding the thirteen existing jobs.
A New Path for Marine Biotech
“We sought to create a shared project leveraging our skills,” explained Arnaud Le Trionnaire. “As a former oyster farmer, I was drawn to Aquatonale’s focus on marine valorization. Retaining the skilled and dedicated team was our top priority.”
The company will welcome three new apprentices in September. Frédérique Le Trionnaire, who oversees personnel, noted that these new hires bring fresh momentum to ongoing projects, driving innovation forward.
The rebranded company, now called Belle en Mer, plans to bolster its five existing brands with new product lines and expanded distribution reach.
Product Portfolio and Expansion Plans
Perlucine, one of Belle en Mer’s brands, offers six certified natural care products based on white oyster shell powder, with a sunscreen product in development. The line is primarily sold through organic and specialty retailers, but the company aims to enter mainstream consumer channels.
Thalaspa, a professional body care range featuring marine actives, is distributed to institutes, thalassotherapy centers like Thermes de St Malo, and spas. Beauty Med targets institutes and beauticians with advanced dermatological treatments. Animarine, a marine clay-based horse care line, is currently sold through specialized resellers and direct sales, and is undergoing trials with zoos in western France. Dorlokin, a sports care brand previously dormant, is being relaunched through specialty sporting goods retailers.
To ensure consistent raw material quality and secure its supply chain, Belle en Mer acquired a marine clay extraction site in Moutiers-en-Retz, giving the business more control over ingredient sourcing.
Industrial Investment and Global Reach
Belle en Mer is investing over 4 million euros in new manufacturing capabilities. The company will move from its historic site in Allaire, Morbihan, to a 7,000 square meter facility in Saint-Nicolas-de-Redon, just a few kilometers away.
“This relocation allows us to handle larger orders and increase storage capacity. We’re also investing in new equipment,” said Arnaud Le Trionnaire. The company currently operates in over 40 countries, primarily in Asia and Africa, through white label and professional brand arrangements. Leadership now aims to enter South American markets to diversify risk tied to international tensions.
“Despite the challenges of recovery and upheaval, we have promising prospects and objectives that justify our investment,” the couple stated.
