The history of Delfingen began in the early 20th century with Christian Streit, a Swiss farmer who emigrated to France to provide for his family.
His son, Emile, who was passionate about mechanics, founded SOFANOU in 1954 to provide employment for his disabled sister. Born out of solidarity, the company grew by supplying plastic bags to Peugeot.
In 1984, his son Bernard took over the management of the company and transformed it, focusing on the manufacture of convoluted tubing for the automotive industry.
This strategic shift marks the company’s entry into a new era of industrial growth.
Émile Streit
In 1954, Émile, a Swiss native of Radelfingen, founded the company in Anteuil, France, to provide work for his disabled sister.
Launch of plastic processing activities.
Bernard Streit
In 1973, Bernard (pictured here with his brother Philippe on his right), Émile’s son, joined the company and took over its management in 1984.
Transition to the industrial era and international expansion.
Gérald Streit
Gérald Streit, son of Bernard and grandson of Emile, joined the Group in 2011. In 2015, he took over as CEO.
Accelerating sustainable and responsible growth. Digital transformation.
Benoît and Victor STREIT
At the General Meeting in June 2025, Benoît and Victor, sons of Hélène and Gérald Streit, join the Board of Directors alongside their father.
Ensuring sustainability.
“It was the boldness, courage, and determination of the women and men who worked there that enabled this small family business to become a global automotive supplier and market leader.”
History of the Group
1954
Emile Streit, originally from Radelfingen, Switzerland, founded SOFANOU in Anteuil, France.
1992
First step abroad (Spain). Expansion and growth in Europe.
1998
Acquisitions in US (Truesdell, APTC, Markel and Jenisco)
2000
2000 to 2006 : global deployment (North Africa, Eastern Europe, South America and Asia).
2007
SOFANOU becomes DELFINGEN.
2008
2008 to 2010 : expansion on the American continent with acquisition of M&Q Plastics. Positioning in the emerging markets of Brazil and China.
2017
Through the acquisition of DROSSBACH, DELFINGEN is entering the industrial market.
2020
Acquisition of Schlemmer Europe/Africa.
2023
Acquisitions of Reiku in Germany.
2024
Celebration of the company’s 70th anniversary.
2025
New brand architecture and new identity for the Group.