Nîmes discusses demonstration impacts

The city of Nîmes held discussions with merchants and their representatives on October 27 to address concerns related to demonstrations and their impact on commercial activity and the city center. The municipality reaffirmed three priorities: ensuring the security of businesses, encouraging the frequency of the city center, and developing sustainable responses to challenges with professionals.

Security measures for businesses

To ensure security, the municipality has implemented a real-time SMS alert system to inform merchants of potential developments, along with a permanent presence of municipal police and close collaboration with professionals. During previous demonstrations, municipal services coordinated with the prefecture and National Police to monitor situations hourly and share information swiftly.

Merchant requests under review

Merchant associations have requested increased surveillance for the most exposed establishments, continued police presence after processions disperse, and the identification of direct interlocutors. These requests are under review with relevant services to address identified risks. Deputy Nicolas Nadal highlighted the success of collective institutional efforts in preventing damage and called for avoiding anxiety-provoking speeches.

Campaign to boost city center activity

Beyond security, the city aims to boost the frequency of the city center through a communication campaign highlighting commercial diversity and encouraging residents and visitors to return to shops, restaurants, and streets. Deputy Emmanuel Bois urged the public not to fear visiting the city center, emphasizing its role as a place of life and consumption. The Halloween parade on October 31 is also scheduled to bring life to the city center.

Ongoing dialogue and future plans

The city plans weekly meetings with merchants to monitor the situation and advance work options, alongside preparing Commerce Summits starting in 2027 to discuss commercial dynamization. Mayor Vincent Bouget stressed the need to overcome the climate of fear affecting commercial activity and emphasized collective efforts to ensure the city center's continued vitality.

Concerns over economic impact

Éric Giraudier, president of the CCI of the Gard, warned of the economic and human consequences of demonstrations, calling on the prefect to prohibit processions in the city center and near commercial areas. He noted the Christmas period represents nearly 40% of annual turnover for some businesses, with Saturdays being crucial. Disrupted days and reduced customer visits weaken cash flow and risk jobs. Some merchants have taken protective measures, such as barricading shop windows or closing shutters, indicating a climate of concern.