One of France's most exclusive delicatessen chains, Fauchon, has closed two branches in Place de la Madeleine, partly because of the Crown virus and partly because of the constant protests by yellow-bellies.
The closure of the two stores will mean the loss of 77 jobs and also the loss of the iconic Grand Café and a tea shop from the chain of 73 stores.
Under normal circumstances, Fauchon is a major attraction for wealthier tourists from the four corners of the globe, but as early as June, they applied for a receiver to help them get back on their feet.
Their turnover was not only affected by the months-long closure due to the coronavirus, but also by the persistent strike of the yellowjackets.
„This is a difficult time, but we have to move on,” said the CEO of Fauchon. „The world is moving on, we have to change.”
Although they tried their best, they could not re-let the two shops in prime locations, which meant a loss of revenue of €3 million a year.
The manager added that in the future they will focus on smaller shops to be closer to their customers, as foreign customers who missed out due to the pandemic have not yet returned.
Famous for his vast selection of luxustea and pastries, Fauchon remains an icon of French lifestyle and gastronomy. They have 73 stores and restaurants around the world, including 30 in Japan, 20 in France and 15 in the Middle East.
(source: www.rfi.fr)
