In a context where the industrialization of the territory is more essential than ever, the recent visit of the company Paragon ID to the disused site of the former SAM (Aveyron metallurgical company) in Viviez is generating high expectations. Indeed, the potential establishment of this company, specialized in high technologies, could revive the economy of the Decazeville Basin by creating approximately 200 jobs. But how can this initiative transform a territory in crisis? Are the promises of Paragon ID concrete enough to envision a peaceful future? Let’s explore together the challenges of this company and its impact on local economic development. What can major players like Atos, Thales, or Capgemini bring to such a dynamic?
Throughout this article, we will also analyze the key elements that could accompany this transformation: know-how, infrastructure needs, and the role of the region. Stay with us to discover the perspectives offered by this establishment and the revitalization of a territory marked by a complex industrial history.
What future for the Aveyron territory?
Paragon ID’s visit to the former SAM site is an event not to be underestimated. For many, it represents hope for a revival in the Decazeville Basin, a region heavily affected by the upheavals of industrialization. But what does this mean concretely? Why could the presence of a high-tech company change the game? Let’s explore these questions together.
The promise of jobs and innovation
The potential establishment of Paragon ID in the heart of Aveyron is based on several strengths:
📈 Job creation : With 200 positions at stake, the company could be a significant lever for local employment.
💡 Technological know-how : By providing advanced identification solutions, Paragon ID could boost innovation in various sectors.
🌍 A new economic dynamic : Revitalizing former industrial sites for modern activities could attract other companies.
By 2025, the technological market is constantly reinventing itself. Companies like STMicroelectronics, Dassault Systèmes, and Orange have already grasped the stakes of this transformation. Learning from them in this perspective is an opportunity not to be missed.
Pascal Mazet, regional councilor, expresses a shared hope: “We strongly believe in it!” What could Paragon ID bring to this fusion of tradition and modernity?
A strategic site and adapted infrastructure
The geographical position of the former SAM site is also a key component in this project. Buildings A and B have been deemed suitable to accommodate the company. Pascal Mazet notes that this meets a concrete need of the company, which is looking for a location four hours away from its main base. This proximity is a significant asset for operational development.
Moreover, transport and communication infrastructures are crucial for the establishment of a high-tech company. A quality connection not only facilitates exchanges but also attracts other investors. Leading companies like Capgemini, Thales, and Schneider Electric have understood the importance of this aspect in their success. A good communication network can indeed make all the difference in this interconnected world.
Asset
Details
Impact on the local economy
Job creation
200 potential positions
Strengthening the purchasing power of residents
Subcontracting & partnerships
Collaboration opportunities with local companies
Dynamization of the economic fabric
Innovation
New products and services
Attraction of other companies in the sector
Through these different assets, we can already envision the first steps towards revitalizing this territory. But what about the response of local actors?
Local actors and collective dynamics
The commitment of local actors is essential for the success of this establishment. David Gistau, former founder of SAM and CGT union representative, underlines the importance of this approach for the Basin. But he also mentions a certain caution. Given past unsuccessful attempts, distrust towards still vague promises is legitimate.
Mobilization of the territory’s forces
To calm these fears, strong regional mobilization is necessary. This process could include:
🤝 Creation of consultations : Inviting local actors to participate in the discussion on the company’s entry.
📊 Market studies : Helping to identify the real impact of the establishment on the economy.
🎓 Training and retraining : Implementing programs tailored to job seekers wishing to join Paragon ID teams.
Local initiatives, supported by the Occitanie Region, could turn this situation into an opportunity for former employees of the ex-SAM, as well as for younger generations. The experience of other actors such as Sopra Steria and Bouygues Telecom, who have successfully established and integrated their activities while promoting training and access to employment, is very instructive.
The role of elected officials and institutional actors
Local elected officials also play a crucial role in this revitalization dynamic. The reindustrialization program of the Decazeville Basin could become a model. Incentive actions by institutions aiming to restore disused industrial sites are indeed central.
Carole Delga, President of the Region, advocates for an active industrialization policy. This involves:
📅 Planning networking events to encourage innovation and synergies.
🔑 Facilitating access to funding for establishment projects in the territory.
💬 Encouraging social dialogue to support changes in the job market.
Initiative
Objective
Actor
Training workshops
Preparing employees for new technologies
Occitanie Region, local companies
Partnerships with universities
Promoting research and development
Universities, colleges, and companies
Support for young entrepreneurs
Creating a dynamic ecosystem
Incubators, support organizations
If the will of elected officials is strong, it must also be translated into tangible actions on the ground. In this context, collaboration between the public and private sectors is essential.
Challenges to overcome to ensure success
Between hopes and fears, the establishment of Paragon ID in Viviez undoubtedly raises challenges. It is not enough to state promises: action must also be taken. What are the main challenges on the horizon?
The need for a firm commitment
The various stakeholders involved must first agree on clear commitments. Stopping deindustrialization must involve:
📋 An economic transition plan that takes into account the specificities and real needs of the territory.
🤔 Regular monitoring of the project and transparency in information sharing.
🔍 An evaluation of the social and environmental impacts of the new activities.
Companies like Airbus and Dassault Systèmes can bring their expertise to support this transition. With its order book, Airbus has successfully revitalized several regions by helping them realize their potential.
Overcoming local skepticism
Local skepticism represents a barrier to overcome. The memory of past struggles within SAM is still vivid. Thus, to instill a climate of trust, it would be appropriate to:
🗣️ Highlight the testimonials of the first recruits to reassure about job promises.
🔗 Organize visits to already operational sites to show the concrete benefits of the establishment.
🎉 Build a communication strategy around possible successes.
Challenge
Potential solution
Actors involved
Lack of trust
Strengthen communication and engagement
Elected officials, local companies
Infrastructure problems
Invest in communication and transportation infrastructure
Region, private partners
Encouraging training
Implement retraining programs
Training center, companies
FAQ
What is Paragon ID’s role in the revitalization of the territory?
Paragon ID aims to establish technological identification solutions and create 200 jobs, thus bringing a new economic dynamic to the region.
How do local officials plan to support this project?
Elected officials aim to establish a reindustrialization plan by fostering consultation between stakeholders and supporting the necessary investments.
Which other companies could play a key role in this transformation?
Companies such as Atos, Thales, and Schneider Electric could bring their expertise in innovation and reindustrialization.
What is the perception of former SAM employees?
Former employees are cautious but interested. They hope for concrete actions and real job opportunities in the future.
What challenges must be overcome to ensure success?
The main challenges include the commitment of local actors, overcoming skepticism, and improving infrastructure.
