A Brief History of SOPREMA
SOPREMA’s journey began in 1908, when Sir Charles Geisen, a visionary building materials industry, founded Les UsinesAlsaciennesd’Émulsions in Strasbourg, France. Just a year later, he introduced a groundbreaking product—canvas dipped in hot bitumen—that was flexible, impermeable, and easy to apply. Its thick, textured finish resembled an elephant's skin, earning it the name MAMMOUTH, which became a benchmark in waterproofing durability.
In 1941, Charles’ son, Pierre Geisen, took the reins and created SOPREMA (SOciété des PRoduits et Revêtementsd’ÉtanchéitéMAmmouth), along with a new manufacturing plant in Avignon, France. The company grew steadily, anchored by technological advancement and a strong research culture.
A major leap came in 1975, when SOPREMA developed SOPRALENE, the first SBS elastomeric bitumen membrane, revolutionizing the industry. By 1978, SOPREMA had expanded into North America, establishing operations in Drummondville, Québec, and setting the stage for global growth.
SOPREMA in the Middle East
SOPREMA entered the Middle East in 2008, distributing high-performance waterproofing membranes and construction materials through its Egypt-based manufacturing facility. The company quickly built a reputation for quality and reliability, successfully delivering substructure and roofing solutions to many high-profile projects across the region.
In 2018, SOPREMA acquired a manufacturing facility in Abu Dhabi, reinforcing its local capabilities. The momentum continued in 2024, with the acquisition of a state-of-the-art building materials plant in Dubai—establishing the United Arab Emirates as the global manufacturing hub for the SOPREMA Group.
Today, under the leadership of Pierre-Étienne Bindschedler, the founder’s grandson, SOPREMA stands as a global leader in waterproofing, building envelope systems, and sustainable construction solutions, with over 115 years of experience.
Innovation as the Driving Force
Since its inception, SOPREMA has remained committed to improving the quality of life and protecting the environment through continuous innovation. The company develops sustainable solutions in waterproofing, insulation, soundproofing, and vegetated roofing systems—serving substructures, rooftops, facades, and civil engineering sectors worldwide.
With over 1,000 projects secured in the Middle East, SOPREMA is a trusted partner for landmark developments across the region.
Featured System: COLPHENE® BSW
One of SOPREMA’s flagship technologies in the Middle East is COLPHENE® BSW, the leading bonded waterproofing system for substructures. Designed for blind-side wall applications in densely built urban areas, this system addresses challenges where limited excavation is possible due to adjacent structures.
Key advantages:
COLPHENE® BSW exemplifies SOPREMA’s commitment to innovation, practicality, and durability in complex waterproofing environments.
Our Core Values
Sustainability at the Heart
Since the very beginning, SOPREMA’s values have been deeply rooted in environmental responsibility, integrity, and technical excellence. The company actively develops eco-conscious products and systems aligned with its sustainability mission, earning the trust and loyalty of clients across generations.
Respect for Nature and People
Over 20 years ago, SOPREMA initiated its sustainable development strategy—striving to harmonize economic growth, social progress, and environmental stewardship. With values of responsibility, innovation, and solidarity, SOPREMA continuously works to reduce the environmental impact of its products and operations.
Building for a Sustainable Future
Certified to ISO 14001 since 1997, SOPREMA has long championed environmental management. Its “green label” product classification helps clients identify sustainable options that comply with High Environmental Quality (HEQ) and other green building standards.
Product and Service Quality
Safety, innovation, and environmental protection are at the core of SOPREMA’s R&D. Every solution is backed by research and engineered to meet the highest performance standards while minimizing environmental and health impacts.
Proximity and Speed
To better serve its clients, SOPREMA strategically locates its manufacturing and distribution centers to ensure faster delivery and reduced transportation footprint, making proximity a key factor in its operational excellence.
Innovation in Every Layer
Customer satisfaction drives SOPREMA’s ongoing innovation. With a focus on quality, safety, and performance, its R&D teams continuously develop next-generation systems that not only meet today’s challenges but anticipate tomorrow’s needs—delivering solutions that are as efficient as they are sustainable.
Protecting the Future of Construction
From France to the Middle East, SOPREMA has remained true to its mission: delivering reliable, high-performance waterproofing and building envelope solutions while protecting the planet and improving lives. With its deep history, bold innovation, and a strong foundation of values, SOPREMA continues to shape the future of sustainable construction worldwide.
