The Melvita story begins in 1977 when biologist, Bernard Chevilliat moved with his brother to the Ardèche in 1977. Together they set up a small farm after being attracted to the area by the vast unspoilt landscapes and open countryside. As they worked the land they became interested in migrant beekeeping, particularly the valuable role bees play in nature as a whole, and soon built up over five hundred hives.
Nuriel, Bernard's wife, then joined the farm. They founded Melvita in 1983 developing their own natural and organic beauty products designed for people to use everyday without the need for harsh chemicals.
Melvita was quietly formulating natural beauty products before the trend for natural and organic cosmetics took hold, and was one of the first to gain the ECOCERT certificate for organic products in 2002.
The eco-factory site now covers over 2 hectares and provides a sustainable work place for over 250 local people. The Melvita eco-factory has everything from solar-voltaic panels to provide sustainable energy for power and water heating, to a living 'green' roof helping the site blend into the natural landscape.
Today Bernard Chevilliat continues to lead the technical team creating innovative products at the forefront of organic formulation and expertise. Melvita products are renowned for their potent plant actives and herbal extracts that ensure that the dermatologically tested formulation deliver maximum results and have led to the brand becoming France's largest certified organic range.