Shops cross fingers for sales

Sales have started in most of France and stakes are high for shop owners.

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.