Fuel prices have been increasing for several months, with the cost of a liter of gasoline and diesel now surpassing 2.25 euros. This has created serious challenges for drivers and professionals who depend on vehicles for their work. According to France Info, an increasing number of merchants have decided not to attend markets, as they struggle with the rising costs. For instance, Olivia Quillet, a poultry producer, has to travel long distances weekly to sell her chickens at markets, which has led to higher expenses. Each full tank of fuel now costs her about 35 euros more than before, a cost she finds difficult to manage. She explains that she cannot increase the price of her products, so she has had to absorb the cost by reducing her own salary. Sylvia Zimmerman, who has been selling toys and sewing supplies at markets since she was 16, is also feeling the impact. She now chooses to attend markets that are closer to her location to reduce fuel costs. She mentions that she uses 12 to 15 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers. Some merchants have opted to visit markets only once every two weeks to save on expenses. Sébastien Bris, an oyster farmer in Charente-Maritime, uses three vans and a heavy truck to sell his products as far as the east of France. He faces significant road travel costs, and he notes that just to cover the Gironde region, he needs 200 euros of diesel over the weekend. To manage this, he takes the cost from his profit margins. He explains that raising the price of his oysters could make them harder to sell, as it is already difficult for consumers to afford them. The rise in fuel prices also affects consumers, who may reduce their own travel, leading to fewer visits to markets or changes in their schedules. This results in a loss of income for merchants, who have already spent money to reach the markets, creating a cycle of financial strain. The situation is worsened by the fact that the increase in fuel costs is felt across France, impacting both the supply and demand sides of market activities. As a result, many market-goers and sellers are caught in a difficult situation, struggling to maintain their businesses while dealing with the ongoing economic pressure.