Will the stores have to face cuts this winter, in the event of a shortage of energy? In order to avoid this scenario, and to contribute to the overall effort to reduce dependence on Russian gas, around forty federations of traders and distributors, grouped together within the French Trade Council (CDCF) and the Confederation of merchants of France (CCF), agreed on a series of measures to reduce energy consumption on Tuesday 26 July.
A wide range of brands is concerned, from independents to franchisees, including major retailers (Zara, C & A, Maisons du monde, Kingtoy, etc.). Among the announcements, the extinction of illuminated signs as soon as stores close, the systematic reduction of lighting before the arrival of the public and, occasionally, in the sales area, as well as the drop in ambient temperature.
The protocol also encourages closing exterior doors when the heating or air conditioning is on – a gesture already encouraged by the government – or cutting off air renewal at night. “Our desire is to disseminate good practices to the entire trade, from the smallest store to the largest”welcomes Yves Audo, president of the CDCF.
Immediate effect
These savings could take effect immediately, although the federations want to assess the constraints of each surface. “The objective is to reduce electricity expenditure as a priority between 8 a.m. and 12 p.m., as well as 6 p.m. and 8 p.m., during peak consumption”.
Last week, food distribution brands, such as Carrefour, Lidl, or System U, had already announced through the voice of the Perifem federation their desire to reduce their expenses. On Monday July 25, several specialized stores (Ikea, Leroy Merlin, Decathlon, etc.) declared that they were following suit.
On the supermarket side, E. Leclerc did not hesitate to increase the sobriety measures through its representative Michel-Edouard Leclerc, who declared on Franceinfo, on July 25, the possibility of “close shops on certain hours”to avoid shortages.
The brands are aiming for a 10% drop in their consumption within two years compared to 2019, in response to the wish expressed by the government. “The challenge is threefold: that of energy independence, ecology, but also economics. Some brands see their bills multiplied by 2.5”, recalls Jacques Creyssel, general manager of the Federation of Commerce and Distribution (FCD). The objective is also long-term, with the ELAN law providing for a reduction in the energy consumption of stores by 40% by 2030.
You have 24.36% of this article left to read. The following is for subscribers only.