The Story of Dominique Bienfait
"Dominique Bienfait’s life is a testament to passion, craftsmanship, and commitment. From his early influences in design and construction to founding Natural Living Concept, his journey showcases a deep dedication to quality, sustainability, and human relationships. This article explores the key moments that shaped his successful career, from discovering latex mattresses to building his business empire in Thailand.".
A Lifetime of Experiences and Commitment to Clients
Early Life and Influences
Dominique Bienfait was born on September 19, 1950, in Anizy-le-Château, and spent many years in the medieval city of Laon. His journey into craftsmanship and business was heavily influenced by his family background and education. Mother's Influence: Dominique's mother was a seamstress who graduated from the Superior School of Cutting and Sewing of Paris, 'Elisa Lemonnier,' before 1945. Growing up, Dominique observed her meticulous work, including drawings, patterns, and the art of stitching, fitting, and sewing. These skills became essential in his own design and creative processes later in life.
Family of Contractors: His uncles were contractors, masons, carpenters, and roofers, which also shaped Dominique's approach to work and craftsmanship. Father's Legacy: His father served during the Indochina War, stationed in Saigon at Tân Son Nhât military airport, sparking Dominique's connection to Asia—a connection that would later become significant in his professional journey.
Father's Legacy and Influence
Dominique Bienfait’s father played a significant role in shaping his worldview and inspiring his connection to Asia. Having served during the Indochina War, stationed at Tân Son Nhât military airport in Saigon, his father's stories and experiences sparked Dominique’s early interest in the region.
This connection would later prove pivotal when Dominique moved to Thailand and ventured into the latex mattress industry.
His father's legacy of resilience, discipline, and service deeply influenced Dominique's own approach to business, encouraging a strong sense of commitment and purpose throughout his career.
The Influence of Dominique's Mother: A Legacy of Precision and Craftsmanship
Dominique Bienfait's mother played a pivotal role in shaping his approach to design and creativity. A talented seamstress, she graduated from the Superior School of Cutting and Sewing of Paris, 'Elisa Lemonnier,' before 1945. Dominique grew up watching her work meticulously on patterns, stitching, and fittings, learning the importance of precision and attention to detail.
Her dedication to her craft instilled in him a deep appreciation for quality and artistry, which later became essential elements of his own business philosophy and success.
Discovering Latex Mattresses: A Turning Point
In 1976, Dominique experienced a pivotal moment that set the course for his future ventures.
“At that time, my wife won a night in a presidential suite of a very luxurious hotel. As I lay on the bed, I felt like I was on cloud nine—a true happiness. The next day, I asked the reception what kind of mattress it was, and they told me, ‘a latex mattress.’”
This experience ignited his passion for latex mattresses and would lead to his future business endeavors.
The Foundations of Success
Dominique's career began with a focus on mechanization and robotics, designing machines across various fields. Yet, many factors contributed to his future success, leading him to adopt a unique business philosophy:
“You have to be a teacher, a father to your employees. You have to make them feel important while proving that what seems impossible can be achieved.”
His approach, blending mentorship with a deep respect for ecological values and employee relationships, became central to his business model.
Building a Latex Mattress Empire
In 2003, after months of securing investments and constructing their factory, Dominique and his partner opened their factory in Bangkok. The early years were challenging, with frequent adjustments to machines, employee training, and refining production techniques.
“We found the right formula in Vietnam and the machines in India. We had to adapt to the local culture, where you need to be both a teacher and a father to your employees.”
By 2014, the factory had grown to employ 150 people. Dominique then decided to leave the company to embark on new ventures.
The Birth of Natural Living Concept
In 2008, Dominique founded Natural Living Concept, a company focused on offering made-to-measure latex products to individuals. Although initially more of a hobby than a business, the company allowed Dominique to continue creating while working in his factories.
In 2018, Dominique chose to scale back his involvement in factory work to devote himself entirely to Natural Living Concept. His deep love for creation, nature, human relations, and commitment to a sustainable future has since become the cornerstone of his company.
Craftsmanship, Quality, and Care
“We work on our products by hand, and each piece is unique. We bring all our attention to offering the best, and each piece receives a positive personal blessing.”
Dominique’s passion for high-quality, handmade products with a personal touch is at the heart of his company’s success. After over 15 years of investment and work in his factories, he returned to his core values—creation and care for nature, crafting products with a personal and ecological focus.