Shops cross fingers for sales

SUMMER sales have started in most parts of France.

The winter and summer sales windows account for about 40% of annual turnover for shops – most of which takes place in the first week.

Between January and May, independent shops registered a drop in sales of 8.3%, while chain stores dropped 2.9% and shopping centres 2.7%, according to the Institut français de la mode.

In comparison with May last year, sales in May 2009 were down 12%.

While some shops are offering up to 50% off, online retailers are leading the way with discounts of up to 80%.

The sales will last until July 28 except in Corsica and the Alpes-Maritimes, which have delayed their sales until July 8.

The government sets two five-week sales periods a year which are approved locally (hence the opt-out of south eastern departments.).

Outside of this period shops are allowed to choose two weeks in which they can hold their own sales, following reforms introduced this year.