The economic health of French businesses is causing increasing concern, as emphasized by Frédéric Visnosky, the national credit mediator. Indeed, during a recent meeting at the Banque de France headquarters in Montauban, he shared an uncompromising analysis of the state of our small and large businesses facing an increasingly difficult environment. Signs of financial difficulties have become omnipresent, just as doubts about the future of credit meant to support struggling businesses have arisen. With rising bankruptcies and a climate of uncertainty, it is time to be vigilant.
This alarming assessment has intensified since 2024, with an economic situation that continues to deteriorate. This article will examine the factors of this crisis, the responses to be made, and the future prospects for the entrepreneurial world.
The deterioration of the economic situation of companies
With the end of the post-Covid support period, companies are feeling a harsh return to reality. While public aids had helped maintain a certain resilience, the situation has taken a turn. The bankruptcies of companies have started to rise slowly, affecting not only small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), but also large companies, which represents a concerning development for the economic landscape.
An analysis by the national credit mediator
Frédéric Visnosky observed that the cash flows of businesses have gradually tightened. In fact, in addition to payment delays they are facing, which have increased by two days in just two years, job losses are now more frequent than before. This challenges the idea that the market could strengthen.
Purchasing power, for its part, remains supported by a managed inflation rate, but this is not enough to compensate for the financial inconveniences faced by businesses. It remains crucial to ask whether the consumer momentum will persist over time or if the French will return to a saving trend out of fear of uncertain days.
The fallout on financial responsibility
Businesses find themselves in an increasingly delicate economic situation. In the first quarter of 2025, the bankruptcy rate of companies in Tarn-et-Garonne recorded an increase that, while remaining in line with the regional average, nonetheless reveals a concerning trend regarding the health of large companies.
| Sector | Bankruptcies (2024) |
|---|---|
| Construction | 71 |
| Commerce | 48 |
| Accommodation/Restaurant | 36 |
| Technical and administrative activities | 24 |
| Industry | 16 |
| Agriculture | 13 |
| Real estate | 11 |
It is clear that an economic watch is necessary to anticipate bankruptcies. The need to increase financial advice to companies in difficult situations has become indispensable. Such an approach could help improve resource management and better plan activities.
The climate of uncertainty: a brake on entrepreneurial dynamics
The uncertainty surrounding the current business climate is hindering the dynamic of creation and development of companies. Economic actors are alarmed by a nearly nonexistent visibility on the future. Michèle Brogi, the director of the Banque de France in Tarn-et-Garonne, refers to a “calm sea” troubled by international events such as changes in trade policies.
The consequences of indecision
Banks, gathered by Michèle Brogi, share this concern regarding the indecision that has settled in and affects decision-making. Is it this paralysis that pushes some companies to navigate blindly, without a clear strategy? The answer is alarming, as it exacerbates the risk of bankruptcies.
A diagnosis shared by Frédéric Visnosky who emphasizes the lack of preparation in the business creation process. Business leaders must be aware of the importance of anticipating difficulties rather than adapting on a case-by-case basis.
A business permit?
In this regard, the national credit mediator advocates for the introduction of a “business permit,” similar to that which one obtains for driving. This proposal aims to ensure that future leaders are sufficiently equipped to manage the financial responsibility that accompanies their project. This could take the form of mandatory professional training and appropriate knowledge tests.
Reasonable measures to secure business creation, while ensuring that the support provided by chartered accountants does not become a mere formality. The need to eradicate fake chartered accountants is more pressing than ever, especially in light of the vulnerable conditions in which entrepreneurs operate.
Initiatives to promote the resilience of businesses
In this troubled environment, initiatives are emerging to promote the resilience of French businesses. For example, Michèle Brogi highlighted the efforts made by certain sectors, notably agriculture, which are showing increasingly promising financial results, despite the difficulties faced elsewhere.
The importance of organized structures
Companies in arboriculture, particularly the apple sector, show impressive resilience thanks to healthy financial structures. It is encouraging to see that some sectors are still managing to distinguish themselves, while others struggle to progress.
| Business Sector | Economic Health Status |
|---|---|
| Arboriculture (Apples) | Very good |
| Cereals | Problematic |
| Viticulture | Concerns |
However, it remains essential to move away from this duality that opposes struggling businesses and performing businesses. Economic actors must unite their efforts to build an ecosystem conducive to sustainable growth.
Recommendations to follow
In the coming days, Frédéric Visnosky will submit his recommendations to Véronique Louwagie, the Minister Delegate for Trade and Craftsmanship, to encourage those who finance businesses to act. These suggestions aim to address current dysfunctions and pave the way for an economic policy favoring growth.
For a more serene future, it will be crucial to adopt a logic of proactive support for businesses. It is the interaction between private and public actors that can truly transform the economic landscape.
FAQ
What are the consequences of business bankruptcies?
Bankruptcies lead to job losses, a decrease in market competition, and a negative impact on the local economy.
How can we anticipate business bankruptcies?
Economic watch is essential, as is the use of tailored financial advice to identify and minimize risks.
Which sectors are facing the most difficulties?
Currently, the sectors of commerce, construction, and certain agricultural activities are facing significant challenges.
How to support struggling businesses?
Public and private organizations should collaborate to offer proactive support and financial assistance tailored to the needs of businesses.
What role does the national credit mediator play?
The national credit mediator intervenes to facilitate access to credit and to resolve conflicts between businesses and their creditors.
