The Egalim-3 law, which will cap promotions for hygiene products at 34%, comes into force in France on March 1, 2024. What are your next steps in this area?
Christel Delberghe: In December, Eurocommerce lodged a complaint against Article 1 of this law, for several reasons. Firstly, because it contravenes European contract law: it imposes the application of French law in commercial relations, particularly for central purchasing agencies based outside France, where retailers of different nationalities work together to carry more weight against multinationals. Yet European law provides for a free choice of jurisdiction and applicable law, as well as the principle of free movement of products within the EU. This law sets a very dangerous precedent: we do need a paradigm shift. Sovereignty can only be achieved at European level. We are faced with a world made up of large regions, and European retailers are in direct competition with companies from these regions. Economically, Europe can only respond by creating a consolidated internal market. Thinking only on a national scale will not provide solutions.
What financial impact will this law have on consumers?
Christel Delberghe : Initially, the aim was to support small producers. In reality, the biggest beneficiaries are brands owned by big manufacturers.
