Façade factory Hugues Ainé - Grasse

The Fabrique Hugues Aîné , later known as Charabot , was one of the most influential perfumery industries in Grasse, and had a huge impact on the town.

In 1799 , Jean-Joseph Hugues bought the former Hôpital Saint‑Jacques in Grasse. He started his perfumery in 1817, later known as Hugues Fils , and from around 1860 as Hugues Aîné .

Under his son Henri and grandson Jean-Joseph Jr. , the factory expanded through the purchase of nearby properties in the years 1832–1840. In 1865 a tunnel was dug to connect facilities for steam and logistics.

In 1864 , they pioneered technology and introduced steam injection for distillation via a patented still, which was considered modern and efficient. They received international recognition : Gold Medal in London (1862) and Silver in Paris (1878) for their perfumes.

The old factory in the centre was replaced by the production complex in “La Sabrane” at the beginning of the 20th century. The old factory has preserved in situ distillery rooms, stone floors, masonry tunnel elements and a characteristic façade that was restored in 2019.

In 1925, the factory was renamed Charabot when Eugène Charabot took over. In 2007, the factory was integrated into the Robertet group.

Willem Vandenameele