Business losses from October demonstrations

The October 2026 demonstrations against the high cost of living caused significant losses for businesses in France. According to CCI France, which represents all the Chambers of Commerce in the country, 2,500 stores have been damaged across the territory, with nearly half of them victims of looting.

Official figures and ongoing closures

The Minister of SMEs and Commerce, Serge Papin, stated in an interview with Le Parisien on Tuesday, October 27, that 3,000 structures were affected, including damages and looting. As of Wednesday morning, 640 businesses remained closed and were unlikely to reopen soon due to the extensive damage.

Economic impact and revenue loss

The economic consequences are immediate and profound, with city center businesses reporting revenue losses of 80% during the Saturdays of demonstrations. The disaffection of customers, who now avoid areas affected by violence, further worsens the situation.

Estimated damages and seasonal concerns

Initial estimates from the Chambers of Commerce and Industry suggest that the total damage amount for businesses would exceed one billion euros. This is particularly concerning as November and December represent 40% of the annual turnover for local businesses. The threat of new mobilizations in the coming weeks adds to the uncertainty, making it difficult to determine whether planned hires for the end of the year will be maintained.

Challenges facing merchants

Merchants are already dealing with a severely degraded environment, following the 2018 yellow vest crisis and the Covid-19 pandemic. Consumption is further hampered by persistent inflation and competition from Chinese platforms, which offer mass consumption products at discounted prices.

Support efforts and government actions

In response, the Chambers of Commerce and Industry are organizing support for affected merchants, including material and logistical aid, as well as psychological support through organizations like Apesa (Psychological aid for entrepreneurs in acute distress). The government has also removed more than 1,700 suspicious listings from online resale platforms to limit the circulation of goods from thefts and support merchants affected by these acts.