1868 : start up of the company by Ferdinand, Alexandre and Arnould LEMAIRE
In the 19th century, with the continetal blocus and the sugar scarcity from the Antilles, the sugar beet cultivation starts in the north of France.
The growth of sugar industry is very important in the area of Douai and Arras, and generates a significant demand of sugar beet seeds.
Also, as many other farmers, Louis Alexandre LEMAIRE, the owner of "la ferme de l'Obeau" at Auchy-lez-Orchies begins the breeding and the production of beet seeds. On his death, his three sons, Ferdinand, Alexandre et Arnould crate LEMAIRE brothers company in 1868.