Since 1948, Versailles 48 has been a pioneer in transforming the industrial painting industry in Quebec through innovation, quality, and expertise.

Discover our story through our key business milestones.

OUR BEGINNINGS – BUILDING THE FOUNDATIONS

Versailles 48 was founded in 1948 by Mr. Paul Versailles, but its origins date back to 1915. His father, Mr. Joseph Versailles, founded the city of Montreal East in 1910 and became mayor. Paul, owner of a hardware store, began selling paint and responded to the growing demand for industrial painting services.

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Therefore, given his ambitious entrepreneurial spirit, he decided to hire specialized painters, leading to a significant increase in industrial painting contracts. Gradually, Paul shifted his focus away from the hardware store to dedicate himself entirely to this division.

Versailles 48 shifted its focus towards the commercial and industrial sectors, becoming a pioneer in Quebec by importing the sandblasting surface preparation technique directly from the United States. The company became a leader in Quebec as well as a prominent figure in Eastern Canada, serving the oil, paper, and petrochemical industries, as well as the commercial and government real estate sector (schools, government buildings, and hotels).

The Turning Point – The Generational Genesis of the Crousset Family

In 1959, Mr. Jean Crousset joined Versailles 48. Drawing on his experience in the merchant navy, he became president of the company in 1979. A few years later, his son Daniel joined the company, climbing all the ranks from apprentice painter to estimator.

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In 1990, Daniel took over the reins and became president, allowing the second generation of Crousset to lead the company.

For nearly 27 years, he dedicated himself to the growth of Versailles 48, ensuring its long-term viability while maintaining the company's position as a recognized leader in the industry. This period also saw a strengthening of the quality and safety culture, as well as the maintenance of excellence in all industrial and commercial projects.

The transition – The effervescent continuity

In 2017, Alain Beaulieu, Steve and Yannick Crousset (Third generation of Crousset) became the new shareholders. They learned the trade from a very young age and will bring their experience to take the culture of quality, continuous training and the principle of “Doing it right the first time” to another level.

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Versailles 48 employs several AMPP (NACE) certified inspectors of all levels. Furthermore, the new management team is implementing specific quality control procedures, audits, and a management structure to better oversee operations. The company also specializes in health, safety, and environment (HSE), exceeding industry standards. In 2020, the company achieved a new status by obtaining its general contractor's license.

Make way for the next generation – The era of modernization

In 2025, a new shareholder team takes shape. With Steve and Yannick still in place, Versailles 48 redefines itself by bringing on board François Laroche and Riad Sengouga. Their focus is to continue the company's growth to reach new heights, while reaffirming its market leadership, true to its original vision since 1948.