HISTORY OF SAVY JEANJEAN ET CIE, PARIS, FRANCE

Savy Jeanjean were food machinery manufacturers with a British business in chocolate and soap machinery. During World War One, Alfred Savy approached Allan R. Baker in the hope of finding a way of working together in the chocolate machinery field and, in 1919, an agreement was signed whereby Savys and Bakers would collaborate throughout the world.

In September 1920, the British business of Savy Jeanjean was taken over by Joseph Baker Sons & Perkins and with each company having its own sphere of influence, the world market was to be shared, on a profit sharing basis, in chocolate and sugar confectionery machines. Through this trading agreement Baker Perkins also became agents for the Swiss-made Sapal wrapping machines and for the Sevigne bread-wrapping machines – a product of the National Bread Wrapping Company of America. Baker Perkins bought 20,000 one thousand franc shares in Savy JeanJean in 1931 and Allan R. Baker was elected to the Conseil d'Administration.

Savy made a loss in 1934 and 1935 despite relatively high order levels because of the Italo-Abyssinian dispute and the increasing depression prevalent in France. Further reductions were made in the establishment. Profits began to increase in the second half of the 30's, despite the difficult international conditions, and the company was in a sound enough financial condition by 1939 to pay a dividend. Communication with Savys ceased when France was occupied by the enemy in 1940.

The Baker Perkins 1944 Annual Report states – "A. Savy Jeanjean are once again in touch with us. From the reports we have received, it is clear that this business was managed during the difficult years of the occupation with wisdom and courage. They are at present faced with the problems common to all French industry. It is with great regret that we report the death in a German Concentration Camp of Mr Georges Lehmann, who was a loyal friend to many of us".

After the war, Savys enjoyed a full order book but difficulties, similar to those being experienced in the UK by the parent company, kept output at a low level. A major re-organisation and rebuilding exercise took place in the late 40's and output improved but strikes were a problem and skill shortages were experienced. By 1950, the company was exceeding its turnover expectations and had extended the office accommodation, re-housed the Drawing Office and extended the Commercial Office.

Economic difficulties increased in France at the beginning of the 50's and a recession in the chocolate industry hit turnover and short time working was necessary. There was some improvement through the middle fifties and dividends were paid reasonable regularly.

Following the death of Robert Savy, the company was acquired by Carle & Montenari of Italy.