Chateaud'Eau and Roche Claire have merged to form the French market leader in the supply of chilled water dispensers.
The new unit, a joint subsidiary of Lyonnaise des Eaux and Degrémont, will manage approximately 35,000 dispensers representing 35 percent of the French market.

The French market for water dispensers grew at a rate of 30 percent in 1999. Estimated sales for the new entity are expected to exceed FRF 150 million in 2000. This business represents an opportunity for the Group to extend its line of services to professional clients, in a segment with considerable growth potential.

Jean-Michel Theron named Chairman and CEO of Chateaud'Eau S.A.

Jean-Michel Théron, 48, had been Chairman and CEO of La Hénin Vie since 1994.

Jean-Michel Theron is a graduate of the Ecole Nationale d'Administration and of the Paris Institute of Political Science. He began his career in the French civil service as Chief of staff to the Paris Prefecture, then Secretary-General to the Prefecture of the Aube Department. He joined the National Town and Country Development Agency in 1983. He joined Sofinco Bank in 1986 as Vice President, Human Resources, becoming Senior Vice President. He was named Vice President of Compagnie de Suez in charge of Group cooperative ventures and communications in 1991.

Richard Azera named Chief Operating Officer of the new unit.

Richard Azera, 46, was Chairman and CEO of Roche Claire.

Richard Azera, MBA, UCLA (California, USA), is an entrepreneur. He founded Copy 2000 in 1979 and Roche Claire in 1992. He is a member of the Executive Committee of the European Bottled Water Association.

This service consists in supplying bottles of cool, tempered, hot, or sparkling water to professional clients (businesses, central and local government agencies, stores, construction sites, etc.). Water dispensers are installed and maintained through rental contacts, guaranteeing regular supplies of water bottles and cups, and regular servicing to ensure highest standards of health and hygiene.