French purchasing power decline

According to a report by the Observatoire de la consommation of Que Choisir published on October 15, 77% of French people have experienced a decline in their purchasing power in recent months. Nearly a third (31%) report a significant decline.

Spending adjustments due to inflation

As a result, three-quarters of French people say they have had to adjust their spending to cope with inflation, affecting areas such as energy, travel, leisure, and food. This adjustment reflects the broader economic pressures faced by households across the country.

Consumer challenges highlighted

Grégory Caret, director of the Observatoire de la consommation at Que Choisir Ensemble, noted on RMC that since 2021, the economic situation has been "very harsh for consumers" and has "slipped under the radar." He stated that "we did not look closely at how French people were dealing with reality."

Shift from replacement to renunciation

Caret analyzed that "we talk about a great replacement, but we are heading towards a great renunciation for some households: they renounce almost everything, saying they only do the essentials." This shift indicates a growing trend of households prioritizing basic needs over discretionary spending.

Personal stories of financial strain

Sabrina, who lives below the poverty threshold with less than 1,000 euros per month, described having to make multiple trips to different stores to manage her expenses and compare prices. She showed a small bag of groceries containing only essentials, such as green beans for 2.22 euros and soup for 2.45 euros, totaling 26 euros.

Daily struggles with limited resources

Natacha, a family educator, also faces daily challenges with a 1,000-euro rent, three children, and grocery expenses. She had to forgo small pleasures, such as a planned visit to Parc Astérix, which would have cost 50 euros per person.

Long-term impacts on retirees

Elisabeth, a retiree, meticulously calculates her weekly grocery budget at 150 euros. If she exceeds this by the end of the month, she reduces her purchases. She reflected on her past, having worked 40 years in the same factory, and expressed frustration about not being able to afford anything despite her long career.

Sacrifices for family events

For her daughter's birthday this weekend, she had to draw from her savings to buy a gift. This sacrifice highlights the broader impact of economic hardship on personal and family life.