Alliance du Commerce seeks Sunday openings

The Alliance du Commerce is asking the government for permission to open all Sundays in November and December 2026. This request comes after two Saturdays of protests that severely impacted business activity, with some stores experiencing a 90% drop in revenue.

Protests caused massive damage

During the protests on October 17 and 24, 2026, more than 2,500 businesses were either damaged or looted. These days are typically vital for retail, especially during the holiday season, and the damage has left many stores struggling to recover.

Alliance compares losses to a natural disaster

The Alliance du Commerce, which represents 16,000 retail locations and 150,000 employees, has described the financial impact of the protests as similar to that of a natural disaster. Unlike a storm or flood, however, the damage was caused by a lack of security during predictable demonstrations.

Request for compensation through Sunday openings

To make up for the losses, the Alliance is asking for an exception to allow businesses to open on all Sundays in November and December. This request has been directed to the Prime Minister, the Ministers of Labor and Commerce, and local prefects, emphasizing the need to recover before the end of the year.

Exclusion of large stores from aid programs

Currently, aid programs such as the "Solidarity Commerce" loan and the "zero cost" partial activity are only available to businesses with fewer than 250 employees. Larger stores and department stores, which were heavily targeted during the protests, are left without support, exacerbating their financial difficulties.

Safety is a key condition for recovery

The Alliance insists that any recovery plan must include guarantees of safety. It has requested that future demonstrations avoid major commercial areas, a proposal that highlights a delicate balance between the right to protest and the need to protect economic activity.

Ineffectiveness of law enforcement

The core issue, according to the Alliance, is not the location of protests but the inability of law enforcement to prevent violence. Despite increased security measures, violent incidents have continued to occur, leading to widespread damage and closures.

Need for public engagement in city centers

The Alliance also urges mayors to take action to encourage people to return to city centers. Suggestions include organizing events, offering free parking, and creating a festive atmosphere, as the absence of customers is not only due to fear of violence.

Urgent need for government response

With the start of the Black Friday sales approaching on November 22, the Alliance is pressing for a swift response. Without timely approval to open on Sundays, stores may not have enough time to prepare, mobilize staff, or inform customers about their plans.