The ecologist mayors of Lyon, Grégory Doucet and Pierre Hurmic, have announced their desire to trial the regulation of commercial rents (following the regulation of residential rents launched in 2022 in Bordeaux). This is a first in France! Both of them wrote a letter in late August asking the future Minister of Commerce to allow their cities to become laboratories for this measure. The goal? To put an end to the growing pressure from landlords on independent merchants.
In the two cities involved in the experiment, the support for the hospitality and restaurant sector is the priority. “The goal is not to freeze the market. We want to give merchants some breathing room and encourage commercial diversity in our neighborhoods. Small independent merchants often struggle more against rising rents than big chains. If it doesn't work, we won’t push it. But if it does, we shouldn’t stop there.”
“I am not in favor of limiting rents,” explained Pierre Hurmic to Figaro.A breath of fresh air for independent businesses
In terms of numbers, the sharp increases in rents, which can triple at the end of a lease, put independent businesses at risk. In Lyon, they account for 60% of commerce in the Presqu’île, compared to only 35% on average in town centers across France. The regulation could then help preserve the diversity and the commercial spirit of neighborhoods.
The idea is divisive: the opposition warns of potential unintended consequences. Some believe the measure could discourage property owners, reduce supply, and favor large chains that can circumvent the rules. The measure reignites the debate on the balance between protecting small businesses and economic dynamism.
Lyon and Bordeaux, showcases of a possible national reform
If the measure takes effect, Lyon and Bordeaux could become the first French cities to test this system. In a context where rents are soaring and independents are struggling to survive, this initiative could serve as a model for other French metropolises. The government will soon have to decide: give this test a chance or let the markets set their own rules.
Source : Le Figaro