Zinco establishes its French subsidiary in Lyon to support the ecological transition of cities
An international specialist in green roofs serving sustainable cities
Zinco, part of the Holcim Group since 2024, is a leading player in green roofs and sustainable construction solutions. The company designs and develops technical systems that help cities better address the challenges of growing urbanization and climate change.
Through its solutions, Zinco addresses several major challenges facing urban areas: strengthening biodiversity, managing stormwater, reducing urban heat islands, improving air quality, and contributing to better landscape integration of buildings.
Bringing nature back into cities to strengthen urban resilience
Zinco’s mission is to reintroduce vegetation into cities on a large scale by transforming rooftops and built structures into sustainable, multifunctional spaces. The systems developed by the company actively contribute to territorial resilience by limiting soil sealing and promoting more natural water management.
These solutions directly respond to the evolving expectations of local authorities, developers, and construction stakeholders in a context shaped by changing environmental regulations and climate urgency.
A German company with an international footprint establishes its subsidiary in France
Founded in Germany in 1957, Zinco has gradually established itself as a pioneer in green roofs. Today, the company operates in 40 countries, primarily through local partnerships.
Seeking to strengthen its proximity to the French market and to sustainably structure its national development, Zinco made the strategic decision to create its own subsidiary in France. For this expansion project, the group selected the Lyon region, recognized for its economic dynamism and its strong commitment to the ecological transition.
Lyon, a carefully considered and supported choice during the decision-making phase
During the early stages of the project, several locations were evaluated. The choice of Lyon was gradually shaped with the support of ONLYLYON Invest teams, who were involved from the very first phases of reflection.
As explained by André Dubuisson, sustainable construction investment advisor at ONLYLYON Invest:
“Although Paris was initially considered, an in-depth analysis of alternative options quickly highlighted the strong potential of the Lyon metropolitan area. The project was qualified as early as spring 2023 and then supported throughout the decision-making phase by showcasing the strengths of the regional sustainable construction ecosystem, the regulatory environment, and market dynamics. Meetings and site visits conducted in 2024 confirmed Lyon as the most relevant choice for Zinco’s establishment in France.”
A location in Lyon’s 3rd district to structure French operations
Zinco opened its French office in March 2025 in Lyon’s 3rd district. This location aims to strengthen the company’s commercial presence on the national market while developing support functions for its clients and partners.
The Lyon location enables Zinco to be at the heart of a region actively engaged in sustainable cities, responsible construction, and urban development, while benefiting from a strategic position at the national level.
Comprehensive support from ONLYLYON Invest
Throughout its establishment process, Zinco benefited from comprehensive support from ONLYLYON Invest, including:
- recruitment of the Lyon-based team,
- real estate search advisory services,
- connections with the local ecosystem (networks, clubs, partners),
- and support with the creation of the French legal entity.
Building greening as a key response to climate challenges
As highlighted by Maxime Sanguesa, Director of Development at Zinco France:
“In the face of climate challenges and new regulations, building greening is no longer an option but a key solution for more resilient cities. At Zinco, we support architects, developers, construction companies, and landscape designers in integrating innovative technical solutions tailored to each project, whether extensive or intensive green roofs or stormwater management systems.”
Lyon, a welcoming region for sustainable construction players
Zinco’s establishment in Lyon illustrates the metropolitan area’s attractiveness for companies committed to the ecological transition. By combining technical expertise, environmental innovation, and strong support for location projects, the Lyon region confirms its role as a leading hub for sustainable construction and resilient cities.