UMIH of Rhône seeks dialogue with Lyon's protesters over cost-of-living crisis, acknowledging shared struggles but calling for peaceful action.
UMIH seeks dialogue with protesters
The UMIH of Rhône, a professional organization representing businesses in the hospitality and service sectors, has expressed a desire to resume dialogue with those protesting the high cost of living in Lyon. Shared concerns about economic hardship
In an open letter to workers and students in Lyon, the UMIH stated that it agrees with some of their concerns about the current economic challenges. It acknowledged the struggles of students, workers, and independent professionals who are finding it difficult to manage their finances. Impact on businesses in the sector
The UMIH noted that professionals in the hospitality and service sectors are also facing rising costs, reduced profit margins, and declining customer spending. According to the organization, nearly one in three establishments has seen a drop in revenue of more than 50 percent. Survey highlights significant revenue loss
A survey of UMIH members revealed that nearly 30 percent of respondents reported a decline in turnover exceeding 50 percent in the past two weeks, compared to the first two weeks of October. The organization emphasized that these events have significantly affected business activity in Lyon. Call for peaceful mobilization
While the UMIH supports the demands related to purchasing power, it warned about the consequences of blockades, damage, and violence. It argued that businesses are not responsible for the high cost of living but are also affected by its consequences. Proposal for a meeting
The UMIH has proposed a meeting with trade unions, student representatives, and mobilized citizen groups in Lyon. It aims to discuss their challenges and explore potential common actions, emphasizing the need for peaceful and organized protests. Focus on collaboration, not opposition
The organization stressed that it does not seek to challenge the demands of protesters or oppose workers, students, and professionals. Instead, it wants to use dialogue to reconcile mobilizations with the need to preserve economic activity and jobs.
