Energy sobriety: retail and distribution are looking to lower the bill

Will stores face cutbacks this winter due to energy shortages? In order to avoid this scenario and to contribute to the overall effort to reduce dependence on Russian gas, around forty associations of traders and distributors, grouped together in the French Trade Council (CDCF) and the Confederation of Traders from France, agreed on Tuesday 26 July on a number of measures to reduce energy consumption.

also read Recovery plan: “By taking on debt for 30 years, the EU Member States are showing their will to stay together”

It’s a wide range of brands, from independents to franchisees, including big brands (Zara, C&A, Maisons du Monde, Kingtoy, etc.). Announcements include the dying out of illuminated signs as soon as shops close, the systematic reduction in lighting before the public arrives and occasionally in the sales area, and the drop in ambient temperature.

The protocol also encourages closing outside doors when the heating or air conditioning is on – a gesture already encouraged by the government – or turning off air renewal at night. “Our desire is to spread best practices throughout retail, from the smallest to the largest store”welcomes Yves Audo, President of the CDCF.

Immediate effect

These savings could take effect immediately, although associations want to assess the limitations of each surface. “The aim is to reduce electricity expenditure primarily between 8am and 12pm and 6pm and 8pm during peak consumption. »

Last week, food distribution brands such as Carrefour, Lidl or System U announced their desire to reduce their spending through the voice of the Perifem association. On Monday July 25, several specialty stores (Ikea, Leroy-Merlin, Decathlon, etc.) said they would follow suit. On the supermarket side, E. Leclerc did not hesitate to reinforce sobriety measures through his representative Michel-Edouard Leclerc, who explained the possibility of doing so on Franceinfo on July 25 “Shops close at certain times”to avoid bottlenecks.

Also read: In Paris, air-conditioned shops have to close their front doors under threat of a fine

The brands are targeting a 10% reduction in consumption over two years compared to 2019 to meet the government’s wish. “The challenge is threefold: energy independence, ecology, but also economy. Some brands see their bills multiplied by 2.5., recalls Jacques Creyssel, executive director of the Federation of Commerce and Distribution. The goal is also long-term, because the ELAN law provides for a 40% reduction in energy consumption in the branches by 2030.

You still have 24.45% of this article to read. The following is for subscribers only.