In 1977, Bernard Chevilliat, Biologist and lover of the open countryside, moved to the Ardèche. Located in South-central France, it is named after the Ardèche river, and is known for its wide-open spaces, limestone cliffs, and stone arches. Soon after arriving, beekeeping became his main passion. With help from his Wife and Brother, they grew this hobby to over five hundred hives, on an isolated farm in the middle of the countryside.

In 1983, they founded MELVITA and developed their first natural organic beauty product based on ingredients from the hive. Starting with Melvita’s famous hexagonal soap, they moved on to shampoo, milks and creams, floral waters, plant oils, etc.

In 2002, Melvita was one of the first companies in the world to earn the ECOCERT certificate for organic products. Becoming the global trend-setter for natural organic beauty products.

Today, Melvita has over 250 employees, is available in over 20 countries, and is the number one certified organic beauty brand in France. Having previously served as Chairman, Bernard Chevilliat is now Vice-chairman of the COSMEBIO Inter-professional Association.