Back IT: IT refurbishment that combines the circular economy with inclusion

Founded in 2021 by Pierre Carmaniou, a former IT engineer, Back IT is first andforemost an extension of the expertise gained in the repair, refurbishment andsale of IT equipment. From the very outset, a decision had to be made: to makeBack IT an entreprise adaptée, a French legal status requiring more than halfthe workforce to be people with disabilities.

The aim is twofold:

• extend the lifespan of IT equipment
• create sustainable jobs for people with disabilities

Today, Back IT has 16 employees and continues to grow around these twocommitments, which form the foundation of its business model.

For Back IT, inclusion is not a side issue of CSR: it is an integral part of the company’s mission.

This model addresses a twofold reality:

• providing career opportunities for people who are often excluded from the labour market;
• supporting businesses and local authorities with their disability policies and responsible digital objectives.

In day-to-day practice, this involves a constant process of adaptation.

Every employee receives personalised support, whether they have physical, mental or invisible disabilities. Roles evolve in line with employees’ needs to create the best possible working conditions.

Econocom’s acquisition of Back IT marks a new stage in the company’s development.

As the group’s third IT refurbishment facility, Back IT now benefits from:

• the strength of an international group
• increased investment capacity
• a Europe-wide presence

The first results are already evident:

• a doubling of the workforce
• a new production line installed
• a ramp-up in production capacity

In return, Back IT brings to the group its expertise in refurbishment as well as its know-how in the area of social inclusion. Econocom now offers a refurbishment service enabling its clients to  benefit from the tax deduction under the disability employment obligation (OETH).

The market is evolving rapidly due to several factors.

Companies are now seeking solutions that simultaneously address several challenges:

Refurbishment is therefore no longer merely a cost-effective alternative to new equipment. It is becoming a genuine driver of sustainable performance.

At Back IT, economic development and social impact go hand in hand. Every new piece of refurbished equipment delivers a threefold benefit.

As business grows, the company recruits, trains staff in-house and supports employees who may lack formal qualifications or have been out of work for some time.

For Back IT, the outlook remains strong.

Demand from businesses for refurbished equipment continues to rise, driven by budgetary constraints, regulatory requirements and the aim of reducing their environmental footprint.

The aim now is to continue this growth whilst remaining true to what makes Back IT unique: demonstrating that it is possible to create economic value whilst generating a positive impact on people and the environment.