Our history
And the story behind the creation of the coconut shade sail
The origins of our craftsmanship
1882
Our story begins in Nyons, in Provençal Drôme, where the Fert family invented in 1892 the first machine to mechanically weave coconut fiber scourtins (esparto mats). Over the decades, the factory – which would become La Scourtinerie – diversified into decorative craftsmanship, forging over the years close ties with its Indian suppliers, helping to nurture over time a century-old expertise in coconut fiber.
The creation of the shade sails
2017
It was during one of his annual business trips to Kerala that Arnaud Fert imagined and created the very first shade sail made of coconut fiber.
After some studies and adjustments, La Scourtinerie launched in 2017 Les Ombrières de La Scourtinerie ®: both practical and highly aesthetic, the success was immediate. The company even won the prestigious Côté Sud Salon award in 2019, recognizing the most beautiful innovation of the year.
Innovative and ambitious
2024
Experiencing remarkable success, La Scourtinerie logically establishes itself as the leader in the market for shade sails made from coconut fiber. The company is industrializing and significantly expanding its team.
In 2024, to support this expansion, the company separates administratively from its parent company and becomes Les Ombrières de Provence®. Firmly focused on its time and challenges, the company intends to continue exploring the creative potentials of its iconic raw material.
Passing on and Renewal
2026
A new chapter is beginning for Les Ombrières de Provence.
Four partners are now at the helm of the company, with the goal of continuing to expand its product lines with boldness and consistency.
The Vision of Les Ombrières de Provence
Les Ombrières de Provence places customer relationships at the heart of every project. The team supports its customers at every stage of their shade sail’s life cycle, offering attentive service and personalized advice.
With a century of expertise in coconut fiber, they are able to offer high-quality shade solutions and continually push the boundaries of custom design, because every space is unique.
Driven by a commitment to responsibility, Les Ombrières de Provence believes in sustainable shade solutions made from natural, eco-friendly materials.
