“At the Heart of ETI”: Amplitude, the French Photonics Leader Shining Across the Globe

“The laser is incredible. Beyond being an object of astonishing technological beauty, modern life would not be what it is without it: no cutting-edge ophthalmic treatments, no smartphones, no electric vehicles…”

It is with this conviction that Damien Buet, President and CEO of Amplitude Laser, opens the conversation. From its base in Nouvelle-Aquitaine, the deeptech mid-sized company designs and manufactures ultrafast lasers used by laboratories, industrial companies, and medical players worldwide. A French industrial success story born from scientific research that has grown into a leading international player.

Founded by two entrepreneurs passionate about photonics, Éric Mottay and Gilles Riboulet, the company has established itself over the past twenty-five years as a major player in femtosecond lasers — ultrashort lasers capable of delivering extremely high energy over infinitesimally short durations. “We are scientists who became industrialists,” summarizes Damien Buet.

Today, the group employs nearly 450 people worldwide, including around 250 in Pessac. Its annual revenue reaches €70 million, with 95% of its business generated internationally through its subsidiaries and partner network.

A French Mid-Sized Company at the Heart of Technological Transitions

The applications of its technologies are numerous. In healthcare, Amplitude’s lasers are used notably in ophthalmology and in research related to cancer tumor treatment. In industry, they support the evolution of advanced manufacturing processes, particularly in batteries, electric vehicles, and semiconductors.

The company is also involved in highly strategic projects around inertial fusion, a technology being explored to produce carbon-free energy. “We are currently developing a pilot plant with a startup partner. Today, we are the only company offering this technology,” explains Damien Buet. These applications illustrate Amplitude’s ability to position itself at the forefront of major technological breakthroughs.

Another strong growth driver is the global surge in demand linked to artificial intelligence. In particular, Amplitude markets laser solutions in China for advanced semiconductor manufacturing processes. “AI is creating enormous demand for next-generation electronic components. Our lasers, for example, can drill or cut with extreme precision,” says the CEO. These solutions are developed and manufactured in Pessac and are expected to justify new production sites in the future.

A Strategic Foothold in Nouvelle-Aquitaine

Although deeply international, Amplitude has maintained a strong regional anchorage at the core of its strategy. The company’s headquarters and a significant part of its production activities are based in Pessac. The group also operates sites in Lisses, Antibes, Portugal, California, China, and South Korea.

“Our attachment to Nouvelle-Aquitaine is emotional, but also entirely rational,” says Damien Buet. The region benefits from a highly recognized photonics ecosystem, with a strong talent pool, research laboratories, and collaborative structures that foster innovation.

Amplitude works closely with various local stakeholders in the photonics sector and actively contributes to initiatives aimed at strengthening the attractiveness of careers in the industry. “There is a real challenge around industrial skills. The Region and several partners are, for example, working on the creation of dedicated training programs, such as a vocational baccalaureate in photonics,” he explains.

And naturally, being part of the Club des ETI Nouvelle-Aquitaine fully aligns with this spirit of openness and experience-sharing. “In our sector, many companies are mid-sized businesses. The Club allows us to see what is happening elsewhere, exchange ideas with fellow executives, and share common challenges.”

Amplitude is an emblematic example of French mid-sized companies: businesses capable of transforming world-class technological expertise into international industrial success, while maintaining strong regional roots. Companies that innovate, export, recruit, and actively contribute to the major industrial and scientific transitions of tomorrow.

As reflected in the company’s signature: “Sparking a brighter future”…

By Marie Dubois, May 27, 2026, Club des ETI Nouvelle-Aquitaine