A group of shopkeepers in France says it stands in solidarity with the ongoing popular movement and the demands raised by students and workers. In an opinion piece, the retailers also describe the difficulties facing businesses affected by vandalism and the demonstrations’ impact on sales.
The shopkeepers say some colleagues have faced looting and damage to their premises, leaving them in extremely difficult personal circumstances. They warn that many independent businesses already have fragile finances amid pressure from online competition, reduced purchasing power, the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and rising raw-material costs.
They say the demonstrations are further affecting turnover as retailers enter the crucial period leading up to the end-of-year holidays. Without a strong political response to the demands of students and, soon, workers, they believe the movement could continue, with some businesses unable to recover.
At the same time, the authors reject curbs on fundamental freedoms in the name of protecting businesses. They argue that the state should ensure safety and allow demonstrations to take place safely, without arbitrary restrictions, adding that their commitment to democracy matters more to them than their attachment to their shops.
The retailers say they identify with many of the protesters’ concerns, including the rising cost of living and what they describe as tax injustice. They say higher living costs affect them both personally and through customers cutting back on purchases, and call for the chance to work with dignity while contributing their fair share to collective efforts.
Sources: Le Monde Politique.