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The company history started in 1985 with a flash of inspiration. As the moped and scooter had been neglected by the big oil companies, a motorbike enthusiast based in Aix-en-Provence decided to launch a range of lubricants specifically designed for 2-stroke engines which was all the rage amongst adolescents. He wanted to give his young company a lucky and positive name and so called it Ipone, a name directly inspired by Ippon in judo which is the highest score a fighter can achieve and makes him the winner. A name which also has a strong association with Japan and its legendary motorbike manufacturers which account for 70% of motorbike sales.
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Ten years later, Ipone established itself as the French leader in 2-stroke lubricant, and became famous in the off-road sector. The company’s sales strategy expanded: Ipone introduced an element of fun by selling the first strawberry-scented oil. A product which was a resounding success amongst the young although no-one believed in it at first.
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At the same time, Ipone decided to compete against the big companies by tackling the adult motorbike market. The brand launched its first lubricants aimed exclusively at motorbikes and success was confirmed in 2003 when a partnership agreement was signed with Yamaha. The Ipone sticker then appeared on racing motorbikes produced by the famous manufacturer which highlighted its confidence in Ipone’s products and technology. Strengthened by this new fame, the brand sponsored the greatest racing drivers, such as Stéphane Peterhansel, Richard Sainct and Cyril Després. A strategy which was very quick to bear fruit with numerous victories in endurance racing and in the Dakar Rally.
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Ipone went on to use these racing successes to target the general public. The brand started to extend its range of motorbike lubricants to recreational vehicles: quad bikes, snow scooters, jet skis, etc. Hungry for further success, Ipone produced a further innovation by launching a full range of maintenance products dedicated to motorbikes, a market which had not existed until then.
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As the success of the brand was growing in France, Ipone launched its export plan in 2003. Armed with top-quality products, stylish and innovative packaging, an extensive range and a young and dynamic image, the company was quick to find distribution networks in Europe and North America. Ipone now distributes its products in more than thirty countries. In order to meet the special requirements of certain markets, the range has been expanded to include special snowmobile and jet ski oils. To ensure further development, Ipone is now increasing its involvement in international events (World Superbike, Paris Dakar, Red Bull Romaniacs).
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