Do French bakeries charge to slice bread?

Reader question: I went to a new bakery and they charged me 15c to slice my bread. Is this legal?

Several French media outlets have reported instances of customers facing a surcharge for having their bread sliced at their local boulangerie. 

Many boulangeries now use the practice as a way to increase profits, at a time when high running costs are impacting the financial stability of the store.

There is nothing in itself that is illegal. 

Privately-owned bakeries can choose to set any price they wish for their services, and larger chains will follow rules set by national management. 

However, when charging for an additional service the price for it must be clearly stated. 

“Any product seller must inform the consumer, via marking, labeling, or signage, of prices and the specific terms of sale and service provision, in accordance with procedures established by orders from the minister responsible for the economy,” says France’s consumer code. 

If this is not made clear (for example, with a sign) clients must be informed of any additional charge before the action is carried out. 

If there is no clear upfront information stating that having your bread sliced costs more than the purchase price, you are under no obligation to buy the bread if you feel the price increase is unjustified.

If however you were informed and did not object, the bakery is within its rights to charge you the extra amount.