Business leaders and support professionals discussed how to understand the economic situation, better manage their activities, and prevent difficulties. A speed meeting allowed entrepreneurs to directly connect with support actors.
Benoît Ehret, departmental director for Seine-et-Marne at the Banque de France, noted that uncertainty directly impacts business decisions, shifting leaders from uncertain to 'depressed'. While not a generalized downturn, he pointed to fragile forecasts and the vulnerability of some SMEs and sectors like transport. However, he highlighted the region's strengths, including inflation control, improved unemployment rates, and the potential of its young population. His message was clear: 'The response to concerns will not be solely within the company, but throughout the value chain.' He encouraged leaders to work with clients, banks, and partners, and to plan a year ahead.
Jean-Charles Herrenschmidt, president of CCI Seine-et-Marne, observed a paradox: 'Leaders doubt the economy, not themselves.' A consultation revealed that while only 7% of leaders are confident in the French economy, 60% are confident in their own company. He emphasized the ability of business leaders to move forward despite a lack of visibility, and the growing need for advice and support. 'Anticipating a difficulty is not admitting failure. It is an act of management.'
Marine Briand, a consular judge at the Commercial Court of Meaux, reminded attendees that commercial courts are not solely for punishment. Prevention and conciliation mechanisms exist to assist leaders. She stressed the importance of timing, noting that those who succeed are those who come 'sooner,' before payment default, which legally requires a request for restructuring or liquidation proceedings within 45 days.
Emmanuelle Bersez, from the Association of Chartered Accountants of Seine-et-Marne, proposed management reflexes: looking beyond turnover, analyzing products and activities, understanding the break-even point by including financial commitments, and managing growth. She stressed the need to accept potential difficulties and seek advice early.
The Objectif Résilience Île-de-France program, co-funded by the European Union, offers free and confidential diagnostics to identify vulnerabilities and support leaders. The CCI acts as an entry point to a support ecosystem.
The speed meeting allowed entrepreneurs to connect with stakeholders such as the Commercial Court, URSSAF, tax services, chartered accountants, and lawyers, in a non-urgent setting.
The association 60 000 Rebonds, represented by Solveig de Pillot and Jean-Marc Bouvet, presented its work supporting entrepreneurs who have lost their businesses, announcing a new branch opening in Meaux. Their support can extend up to 24 months and includes individual coaching, mentoring, group sessions, training, and expert consultations, also addressing the personal impact of entrepreneurial failure, including mental health.
The evening's overarching message remained consistent: 'To stay the course, as a leader, you must not remain alone!' Anticipating, surrounding oneself with support, and taking action are key to better steering and bouncing back in an uncertain environment.
