Record business creations in France

In September 2026, France recorded 119,307 new businesses, the highest number ever according to the Institut national de la statistique et des études économiques (Insee). This figure marks a significant milestone in the country's entrepreneurial activity.

Contrasting economic indicators

Despite the record number of new businesses, France's economy showed little growth, with a GDP increase of just 0.4% and an unemployment rate of 8.3%. Over the previous twelve months, 70,766 businesses had failed, a 20% rise compared to the historical average.

Methodology and statistical context

The Insee counts any registration in the commercial register as a business, regardless of size or economic impact. This approach may explain the apparent gap between the high number of new businesses and the weak economic indicators.

Trends in business creation

From July to September 2026, business creations rose by 16.0% compared to the previous year. In the first nine months of 2026, a total of 971,803 new businesses were created, a 13% increase from 2025.

Sectoral distribution of new businesses

New businesses are concentrated in low-value-added sectors such as business support activities and commerce. The information-communication sector saw a 55% increase in new businesses over three months, while industry and transport sectors declined.

Economic health beyond raw numbers

To understand the true state of the economy, indicators such as the business survival rate, net job creation, and added value per sector are more informative. These metrics reveal the challenges of a booming entrepreneurship landscape amid economic stagnation.