A recent study on French consumption habits indicates a cautious outlook for 2025, as economic uncertainties persist. While some factors may encourage increased spending, such as improved purchasing power and lower inflation, broader issues like government stability have less impact on consumer intentions.
According to the annual e-commerce report by Fevad (Federation of e-commerce and distance selling), conducted with Toluna-Harris Interactive, 36% of respondents reported increased spending in 2024, mainly due to rising prices, while 30% reported a decrease, primarily out of caution. Notably, only one in six changed spending habits by choice.
Online shopping remained robust, with 32% of French consumers increasing their online purchases in 2024 compared to 27% who decreased them. Physical products, particularly fashion and footwear, were the most popular online purchases, while digital services such as hotel bookings and transport tickets also performed well. Bank cards remained the most common payment method, but electronic solutions and gift cards grew in popularity.
Looking ahead to 2025, 35% of French consumers expect to increase spending, while 24% foresee a reduction. Key motivators include wage and pension increases and reduced energy costs. A third of respondents plan to save more by choosing cheaper products or distribution channels, and younger consumers, in particular, aim to adopt more sustainable practices, such as circular economy initiatives and repairing old items.
Second-hand purchasing is also on the rise, with 51% of online shoppers opting for pre-owned items, primarily for financial reasons. Concerns about quality remain, but insurance offerings are gaining traction. Additionally, 43% of respondents engaged in online resale in 2024, mainly as an ecological gesture rather than for financial gain.
Fevad noted that over half of French consumers (55%) feel their habits have changed post-Covid, with younger generations particularly embracing online shopping and more sustainable consumption practices.
Source: www.meuble-info.fr