Following the violence and looting during protests on October 17 and 18, numerous artisanal businesses had their shop windows smashed, metal shutters torn down, and premises vandalized or even set on fire. This damage directly threatens the survival of these businesses.
The CMA network strongly condemns these acts and thanks law enforcement and emergency services for their mobilization. "Nothing justifies attacking shopkeepers, artisans, and their means of work," the statement emphasizes.
Joël Fourny, president of CMA France, states: "Behind every artisanal business, there are women and men who commit daily, create jobs, and keep our town centers alive. Already weakened by successive crises, this wave of violence is unjustifiable and directly threatens the sustainability of their businesses and, therefore, a lifetime of work. The CMA network stands with artisans to help them face this ordeal and resume their activities."
To provide concrete support, affected artisans are invited to contact 3006, the CMA network's support number, or reach out to their local Chamber of Trades and Crafts.
A solidarity fund has also been activated to meet immediate needs. This emergency aid can reach 1,500 euros. Artisans can obtain information on access procedures by contacting 3006.
Joël Fourny also calls on banks to consider with benevolence the complex situations of some artisanal businesses, particularly those who have not yet completed the repayment of their state-guaranteed loans (PGE), and on insurers to ensure timely compensation. "No artisan should be left alone to face the consequences of this violence!", he concludes.
