Pollen's origins and setup

Pollen, a company founded in Lyon in 2020 and led by Maxime Paget, started its operations in Montpellier with two electric trikes and a small team of three employees. The company aimed to provide meals to office workers in the area using a sustainable delivery model.

Kitchen location and target market

In October 2026, Pollen installed its kitchen at Marché Gare, a local market in Montpellier. The company plans to serve lunch to workplaces within the city's metropolis, focusing on a 15-kilometer radius around its Montpellier location.

First contract with the Ministry of Justice

Pollen has secured its first major contract with the Ministry of Justice, following a competitive tender process. The company will deliver meals to staff working in judicial structures under the ministry's jurisdiction, marking a significant step in its growth.

Electric trike suitability and local knowledge

Maxime Paget believes that Montpellier's urban layout is well-suited for deliveries using electric trikes within the 15-kilometer range. His confidence is based on his experience with local logistics, including his work with regional supply networks.

Previous experience with food distribution

Before founding Pollen, Paget was involved in creating the Provence and Languedoc branch of Potager City in 2013. This service distributed fruit and vegetable boxes through relay points in Marseille and Montpellier, providing him with valuable insight into local supply chains and community-based distribution models.