Launched in 2024 in partnership with ESCP Business School, Sonepar’s Chair on New Platform Strategies, continues to advance strategic thinking on platform-driven value creation. This initiative strengthens our understanding of how digital platforms, ecosystem models, and new customer interaction patterns will influence the future of our business.

This initiative deepens our understanding of how digital platforms, ecosystem models, and new customer interaction patterns will influence the future of our business.

Over the past year, the Chair has gained visibility and expanded its activities. A growing number of students, professors, and industry experts have joined the program, strengthening a collaborative environment where academic insights meet real world challenges. Through teaching modules, workshops, and guided research projects, future leaders explore  Sonepar’s datadriven, omnichannel, and customer-centric approach.‑world challenges. Teaching modules, workshops, and guided research projects now give future leaders the opportunity to explore ‑driven, omnichannel, and customer‑centric approach.

Expanding research and collaboration

Several research streams are now underway, each bringing fresh perspectives to Sonepar’s transformation journey. These studies aim to deepen collective understanding on topics including:

• Platform strategy and governance;
• Digital ecosystems and value creation;
• Emerging customer interaction models;
• The role of data in shaping new B2B practices.

This work supports Sonepar’s ambition to operate as the world’s leading B2B electrical distributor, leveraging technology to deliver seamless and meaningful customer experiences.

Preparing tomorrow’s leaders

The shared ambition behind the Chair remains clear: to connect academic excellence with the strategic opportunities and challenges facing our industry. Through this collaboration, Sonepar and ESCP are helping equip new generations of leaders with the mindset and skills needed to drive responsible, high impact innovation.‑impact innovation.

The momentum continues to build in 2025, with new teaching initiatives, expanded research projects, and further engagement with the ESCP community.

The latest Sonepar Junior Committee (SJC) restitution event brought two days of insight, energy, and bold thinking to Budapest. This long‑standing talent development program, launched in 1991, welcomed its newest cohort as they presented their final projects to Sonepar leadership, including Marie‑Christine Coisne‑Roquette, Philippe Delpech, and members of the Executive Committee.

Celebrating Global Talent and Leadership Growth

The SJC is Sonepar’s longest-running development program and a cornerstone of our commitment to nurturing future leaders. Each year, promising associates from around the world join the initiative to work on high-impact assignments that stretch their leadership skills, broaden their global perspective, and strengthen collaboration across the Group.

During the event on January 27 and 28, participants shared the outcome of months of work on strategic topics that matter for Sonepar’s future. Their presentations reflected curiosity, ambition, and a strong sense of purpose.

Two Days of Energy, Innovation, and Ideas

Across both days, the cohort delivered forward‑thinking recommendations and showcased a deep understanding of Sonepar’s strategic priorities. Their insights highlighted:

• Fresh perspectives on global challenges shaping our industry
• Opportunities to accelerate digital and sustainability initiatives
• New ways to foster collaboration and deliver impact across Operating Companies

Leaders in attendance welcomed the cohort’s contributions and reaffirmed the essential role the SJC plays in strengthening Sonepar’s culture of leadership excellence.

Completing the SJC journey is a meaningful step in each participant’s career. It reflects dedication, curiosity, and the ability to solve challenges while collaborating across borders and disciplines. Congratulations to every member of the 2025 cohort.

Continuous education is at the heart of Sonepar’s purpose to Power Progress for Future Generations. As one of six bold, group-wide commitments, it reflects our dedication to equipping associates, customers, and partners with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving industry. 

Why continuous education matters 

The electrical distribution sector is transforming at an unprecedented pace. From decarbonization to digitalization, staying ahead requires more than innovation: it demands knowledge. At Sonepar, we believe education is the foundation for progress. That’s why we’ve launched more than 50 projects worldwide to foster learning and engagement of our teams and the entire ecosystem.  

Three inspiring examples 

• China: Climate Fresk Workshops 
  To deepen sustainability awareness, Sonepar organizes interactive Climate Fresk workshops. These sessions empower associates to understand climate challenges and take meaningful action in their roles. 

• United States: Sonepar Learning Lab 
  In the US, our Learning Lab offers hands-on demonstrations of sustainable solutions, including solar PV installations and EV charging systems. This initiative helps associates and customers experience cutting-edge technologies in real time. 

• Belgium: Cebeo Campus and Academy 
  Cebeo leads the way in renewable technology training. Through Cebeo Campus, customers gain insights into legislation, certifications, and subsidies, while Cebeo Academy equips sales teams with specialized expertise. 

Driving impact across the globe 

These programs are catalysts for change. By investing in education, Sonepar ensures that every stakeholder in the B2B electrical distribution is prepared to embrace sustainability and innovation. 

Sustainability map

From STEM scholarships, to circularity, and even cyclone relief, Sonepar is always working to advance UN Sustainability Goals.

For the first time, Sonepar is proud to participate in the One Young World Summit, held in Munich from November 3-6, 2025. 

This global event brings together young leaders from around the world to tackle pressing challenges such as the circular economy, responsible technology, inclusion initiatives, education, and global cooperation for peace and security.

Our presence at One Young World reflects Sonepar’s deep commitment to youth leadership, sustainability, and inclusion. It’s a powerful expression of our Purpose: “Powering progress for future generations.”

Five delegates, one shared mission

Five associates from across the Sonepar Group represent us at the summit. Each brings a unique perspective, shaped by their role, region, and personal passion for change:

• Louise Biral, Human and Organizational Development Manager, Brazil
  “I’m expecting to learn from diverse perspectives, be inspired, and bring back insights that can help us grow both as an organization and as a force for good beyond our walls.”
• Boris Music, Branch Manager at Lawrence & Hanson, Australia
  “Gaining new perspectives on global challenges will equip me to drive meaningful change within our organization and inspire others to do the same.”
• Michael Cummins, Account Manager at Irby Utilities, United States
  “Exploring innovative solutions from around the world and bring back fresh ideas to our company and utility partners.”
• Melissa Villani, Content & Communications Manager, France
  “I believe in the power of storytelling to inspire action and drive change.”
• Fabian Winnemoeller, Business Controller Supply Chain, Germany
  “Collaboration and shared experiences can help us tackle global challenges,from responsible tech to peace and security.”

Why it matters

The One Young World Summit is more than an event. It’s a platform for bold conversations, fresh ideas, and global collaboration. For Sonepar, it’s a chance to amplify the voices of our young leaders and connect our values to global action.

By investing in our people and supporting their growth, we strengthen our culture and our impact. These delegates will return with new insights, renewed purpose, and a global network committed to creating lasting change. Their experience will help shape the future of our company and the communities we serve.