Basic Data to Convince You

France, the fourth most populous country in Europe and the sixth largest economy in the world, is undoubtedly a giant worth considering. With 67.84 million inhabitants (2019 data) and a GDP of EUR 2,488 billion (2018), it represents enormous potential. The French love online shopping.

With 44.9 million internet users (69% of the population in 2019) and a projected growth to 76% by 2023, there is a huge customer potential. E-commerce turnover in France reached a respectable EUR 37.793 billion in 2019 and is expected to increase to EUR 52.990 billion by 2024. The average annual spending per customer is EUR 841 and should climb to EUR 970 by 2024. Competition is not as high as in the Czech Republic (approx. 120,000 active e-shops), but it is still necessary to prepare well for the market.

What do the French buy online most often?

Similar to our market, online shopping in France is dominated by clothing, which accounted for 32% of all online purchases in 2019 with sales of over EUR 12 billion. This is followed by toys (22%), electronics and furniture (both 17%) and food (11%). If your range falls into these categories, you have a great chance of success in France!

Payments and Shipping: How to do it the French way?

Credit cards clearly dominate online shopping in France (47% of all purchases in 2019). In second place are e-wallets (27%) and surprisingly, e-invoicing has a strong presence (13%). Although credit card popularity is expected to decline and e-wallets and e-invoicing are expected to increase, credit cards will remain a key payment method. You should definitely offer your customers the option of paying by card and consider integrating popular e-wallets.

When it comes to shipping, you have a choice of several reputable international carriers that also operate in France. The most popular include:

1. DPD: One of the most important companies in Europe, offering solutions for easier and more flexible shipping.
2. GLS: Reliable services with a key market in Europe and deliveries worldwide.
3. Zásilkovna (Packeta): With a dispersed European network and a wide network of collection points, it is one of the most cost-effective.
4. DHL: The world's leading postal and logistics company with an international portfolio of services.
5. UPS: One of the world's largest parcel delivery companies, offering specialized transport and logistics services.
6. TNT Express: A wide range of transport services with a priority of connecting business and customers.

We recommend considering offering delivery to collection points, as the popularity of multi-channel access and flexible delivery options is growing in France.

Beware of the Law: What to Watch Out For?

Expanding into a foreign country always brings the need to familiarize yourself with local laws.

In France, watch out for:

1. Language: French is the official language and it is crucial to have the e-shop and all communication (customer support, terms and conditions) localized into perfect French. The French appreciate "Made in France" and overall authenticity, so it is important to show that you value them.
2. Consumer Protection: French law is strongly focused on consumer protection. You should thoroughly familiarize yourself with local rules regarding, for example, terms and conditions, processing of personal data (GDPR applies throughout the EU, but there may be local specifics), complaints procedures and returns.
3. Product Returns: Consumers in France have the right to withdraw from the contract within 14 days of receiving the goods without giving a reason. It is your responsibility to inform the customer of this right and ensure a clear and simple returns process. The cost of returning the goods may be borne by the customer if they are properly informed.
4. Tax Burden: The tax burden in France is around 20%. Make sure you are handling VAT and all tax obligations correctly.
5. Environmental Responsibility: France places great emphasis on the environment. Be prepared for potential requirements regarding environmental standards, packaging recycling and overall sustainability. Consumers are increasingly striving for more responsible consumption habits.

Currency and E-commerce Turnover

The currency in France is the euro (EUR), which simplifies payments and calculations for merchants from the eurozone. As already mentioned, the total e-commerce turnover in France in 2019 was EUR 37.793 billion and is expected to increase to EUR 52.990 billion by 2024. This indicates a dynamically growing market with great potential.

Online Platforms and Price Comparison Sites: Where to Get Noticed?

To succeed in the French market, it is crucial to be visible. Take advantage of the following sales platforms and price comparison sites:

Largest Sales Platforms:

1. Amazon.fr: With more than 29 million visits per month, it is the clear number one. A presence on Amazon is practically a must for expansion into France.
2. Cdiscount.com: A French online giant with over 20 million visitors per month and 9 million active customers. Offers a huge range of products from 12,000 merchants.
3. Veepee.fr (formerly Vente-privée): A platform for flash sales with over 14 million visitors per month. Great for selling surplus stock or exclusive offers.
4. Fnac.com: Focuses on home appliances and electronics with 13 million visitors per month.
5. Carrefour.fr: Online store of the Carrefour retail chain, strong in the sale of food and other categories.

Largest Price Comparison Sites:

1. LeGuide.com: With 20 million visits per month and offering over 200 million products, it is one of the largest in Europe.
2. Cherchons.com: One of the most popular price comparison sites in France with over 4 million users per month.
3. Style Lounge: A large shopping portal focused on fashion with the ability to compare prices.
4. Rue Montgallet: Specialized price comparison site for electronics and computer parts.

Using these platforms will help you gain customer trust and establish yourself in the market faster.

Social Networks and Marketing: Where to Reach the French?

With 38 million social media users (58% of the population), social media represents a huge opportunity to promote your e-shop.

Dominated by:

1. Facebook: With over 35 million users, it is the absolute number one.
2. Instagram: 17 million users.
3. Twitter: Around 6 million users.

Invest in targeted advertising campaigns on these platforms and consider working with local influencers.

In Conclusion: Is France Right for Your E-shop?

France is a dynamic and growing market with great potential for e-commerce. The high development of online shopping, the growing popularity of cross-border purchases and the relatively lower competition compared to the Czech Republic are clear advantages. However, don't forget to thoroughly localize your e-shop into French, understand local payment and shipping preferences and comply with consumer law. If you prepare thoroughly for expansion, France can be a real gold mine for your e-shop!