François Feuillet is a French businessman best known for his transformative leadership of Trigano, a premier motorhome and leisure vehicle manufacturer in Europe. Before rising to prominence in the motorhome industry, Feuillet began his career in finance. He held an auditing position at KPMG, one of the world’s leading professional services firms, where he developed a strong foundation in business strategy and financial oversight.
Leadership at Trigano
In 1981, François Feuillet became the driving force behind Trigano, a French company that started as a camping equipment manufacturer in 1935. Under his visionary leadership, Trigano expanded into the leisure vehicle sector, eventually becoming a European leader in the motorhome industry. Feuillet’s strategic foresight was crucial in transforming the company from a niche player into a major force within the industry.
In 1998, Feuillet successfully took Trigano public, further solidifying its market presence and financial stability. Throughout his tenure, Feuillet and his family maintained a 58% ownership stake in the business, ensuring continued alignment with the company’s core values. After 39 years at the helm, he stepped down as chairman in 2020, leaving behind a legacy of growth, innovation, and leadership. However, both he and his wife, Marie-Hélène, continue to serve on the board of directors, ensuring the Feuillet family remains closely involved with Trigano’s future.
Passion for Burgundy Wine
While François Feuillet made his mark in the business world through Trigano, his passion extended into viticulture. Instead of investing in the renowned Bordeaux region, Feuillet followed his personal preference for Burgundy wines. Partnering with David Duband, a talented winemaker, Feuillet established an exceptional Burgundy wine estate in the Cote de Nuits region. Starting with premium vineyards in Vosne-Romanée and Nuits-Saint-Georges, Feuillet invested in only the highest-quality plots, driven by a passion for producing world-class Pinot Noirs.
Together with Duband, Feuillet’s vineyards have garnered widespread acclaim, with Domaine François Feuillet and Domaine David Duband producing some of the most celebrated wines in Burgundy. Under Duband’s craftsmanship, the estate holds four acres of Grand Cru vineyards, eight acres of Premier Cru, and 12 additional acres across prestigious villages such as Gevrey-Chambertin, Chambolle-Musigny, and Morey-Saint-Denis. The estate has earned high praise from influential wine critics, including “La Revue du Vin de France” and Burghound, further establishing its place among Burgundy’s elite wine producers.
A Legacy of Excellence
François Feuillet’s dual success in the business and wine industries reflects his commitment to quality and innovation. Whether leading Trigano to become a dominant player in European leisure vehicles or cultivating some of Burgundy’s finest wines, Feuillet has always demonstrated an unwavering dedication to excellence. His leadership style, marked by strategic foresight and a passion for craftsmanship, continues to leave a lasting impact in both industries.
Today, Feuillet’s legacy lives on through his contributions to Trigano and his prestigious Burgundy wine estate, ensuring his influence will be felt for generations to come.
