The 22,500 outlets are thus continuing a conversion already under way: less dependent on cigarettes, they rely on a range of products and services aimed at a clientele that no longer comes solely to smoke.
Tobacco shops across metropolitan France are diversifying their sources of revenue at a forced pace. Despite 3,000 closures in ten years, the network still counts 22,500 outlets.
The shift responds to the decline in cigarette consumption. As the French smoke less, tobacconists are themselves weaning off tobacco and seeking other activities to keep their businesses going.
The stakes are already visible in stores: 42% of tobacconists’ customers are no longer smokers. The historic business is therefore no longer enough to sustain the entire network.
Faced with this decline, professionals are expanding services and takeaway sales. Vaping products, CBD — cannabis without a narcotic effect —, gambling, the press, parcel drop-off, tax collection and tax stamps are among the alternative sources of revenue.
Takeaway sales have become essential. The offering of snacks and energy drinks is booming in the outlets.
According to Philippe Coy, then president of the Confederation, the historic business — tobacco, the press and games — is no longer enough. The transformation plan aims to broaden the offering, notably to snacks and parcel drop-off.