Benoît Coquart, the CEO of Legrand, recently featured on Le Figaro TV’s 'Esprit d’entreprise' program, where he discussed the company's strategic direction amidst the rising importance of artificial intelligence (AI). Legrand, known for its expertise in small equipment and digital electrical infrastructure, has shifted its focus towards data centers, which are essential for handling the vast amounts of data required for AI development. Coquart highlighted that this pivot has not only driven their organic growth but now constitutes a notable 26% of their overall business activities.

Emphasizing the company's adaptability, Coquart explained that Legrand's strategy involves targeted acquisitions rather than larger mergers, which has allowed the company to double in size since he took over as CEO in 2018. With 40,000 employees and a revenue of 9.5 billion euros, Legrand's commitment to specializing in data centers positions it well in the rapidly evolving tech landscape. This focused approach aims to capitalize on increasing demands for digital infrastructure as businesses increasingly harness AI technologies.

Coquart's remarks serve as a call to action for businesses to embrace the AI wave and invest strategically in the necessary technologies that will define the future. His leadership reflects a broader trend within industries to adapt to technological advancements, and his insights offer a glimpse into how companies can navigate and thrive in an AI-driven economy.