The Charlois Group has acquired Graf Brothers, marking its largest acquisition to date, aimed at expanding its premium cooperage operations in the US market.

Target Information

The Charlois Group, rooted in the 17th century forest of Bertranges and established by Sylvain Charlois in 2005, specializes in oak and forest-related activities, particularly high-end cooperage through its brand OAK Nation. This company integrates various sectors of the cooperage industry, including forestry, sawing, barrel-making, and the valuation of used barrels. OAK Nation has become a leading player in the premium cooperage market, operating 36 cooperages both in France and internationally, serving 6,000 clients across 50 countries, and achieving a consolidated revenue of approximately €350 million.

In March 2024, the Charlois Group, with the assistance of Transactions & Cie, restructured the capital of OAK Nation by allowing ICG to take a stake in the company. This operation aimed to capitalize on potential growth opportunities, particularly through strategic acquisitions.

Industry Overview

In the United States, the oak lumber industry is characterized by a robust demand driven by the production of high-quality wood products such as flooring and cooperage. The Quercus Alba, or white oak, which Graf Brothers spe