Overview
- French summer sales kicked off June 25 with merchants expecting a boost from seasonal weather and easing inflation.
- Early 2025 commercial activity rose by 0.6% year-on-year, offering a modest uplift ahead of the four-week promotion period.
- Retail leaders warn that ultra fast-fashion platforms such as Shein and Temu, which accounted for 7% of Q1 purchases, could erode traditional sale interest.
- Consumers increasingly embrace year-round low-cost options and second-hand buying, potentially reducing demand for official sale discounts.
- Recent private sales successes raise questions about shoppers’ remaining budgets for the summer sales, particularly in urban centres.