Sales in France (‘les soldes’) present an enticing opportunity for consumers to snag great deals, while allowing merchants to clear their stocks. It’s essential to understand the rules governing sales and be aware of your rights as a consumer. Let’s five into the details.
Table of contents
Decoding sales vs. other discounts
Sales hold a distinctive position as the only promotional periods where merchants can legally sell their stock at a loss. These sales must adhere to specific criteria:
- Advertisement: Sales must be accompanied or preceded by advertising.
- Price reduction announcement: They entail an announcement of a price reduction, potentially even selling at a loss, limited by the available stock.
- Fixed periods: Sales occur during predetermined periods, both in Summer and Winter. The exact dates are stipulated by the Commercial Code, with durations ranging from three to six weeks following the PACTE law.Â
Eligible sale items
Merchants are only permitted to include items in the sale that have been paid for and offered for at least one month before the official commencement of the sales period.Â
Display requirements during sale
In physical stores, it’s imperative that items on sale are clearly distinguishable from those at regular prices. Merchants must transparently indicate the discount compared to an authentic reference price. Since May 28, 2022, a European directive has further clarified how professionals should determine this reference price. They are now obligated to display the lowest price charged in the 30 days preceding the offer. This regulation, applicable across the EU, fortifies consumer protection against misleading discounts.Â
Note: It’s unlawful to hike up prices before the sales period to create a false impression of a better discount. Similarly, failing to apply the displayed price reductions is strictly prohibited.Â
Sales in France: Consumer rights on returns and guarantees
Items on sale enjoy the same guarantees as non-sale items in terms of hidden manufacturing defects or after-sales service. Any statement asserting, ‘during sales, neither returned nor exchanged’ is deemed abusive. Consequently, if a hidden defect is identified, consumers are entitles to request repair, replacement, or a refund for the purchased product. However, in the absence of such a defect, the seller isn’t legally obliged to do so unless they’ve committed to it in their commercial guarantee. Â
Online sales in France: Distinct rights?
Online sales in France adhere to the same regulations as physical stores, including sales periods. Regardless of whether an item was purchased on sale or not, consumers can return it for an exchange or refund within 14 days of delivery.Â
Useful resources
Consumer protection in France – DGCCRF (Direction gĂ©nĂ©rale de la concurrence, de la consommation et de la rĂ©pression des fraudes): This government agency provides comprehensive information on consumer rights, regulations, and how to file complaints. Visit the website here.
European Consumer Centre – ECC: This organisation offers assistance and information regarding cross-border consumer rights within the EU. Visit the website here.
French Commercial Code: This is the official source for legal texts in France, including the Commercial Code. Visit the website here.
Consumer rights – Your Europe: A portal providing practical information on consumers’ rights and how to exercise them within the EU. Visit the website here.
Living in France?
Whether you’re planning to move or you’re already living in France, listen to real life stories on our Just Jump podcast or read our useful blog posts to make your relocation a success!
