Paris Tops 2024 List of French Cities with Dynamic Local Businesses
Paris has been ranked as the top city in France for dynamic and popular local businesses according to the 2024 list unveiled by Shop Small and American Express. This marks a significant rise for Paris, which held the third position in 2022 and second in 2023, among the 30 most populous cities in the country. Nice and Bordeaux complete the top three.
The ranking criteria were based on the density of local shops per inhabitant, the quality and richness of the products offered, the quality of service, opening hours, and available payment options. Consumer opinions were collected from 4,803 French people. Sophie Mahussier, vice-president and general manager of the American Express France merchant network, highlighted the popularity of Parisian restaurants and the essential role of small businesses in French neighborhoods.
Increasing Popularity of Local Shops Across France
The study by American Express, carried out by Statista, indicates a growing fondness among the French for their local shops. This year, 74% of the French regularly visit bakeries and pastry shops, an increase of 9 points compared to 2023. Pharmacies attract 67% of French people, up 12 points, and restaurants are frequented by more than half of the consumers, a rise of 7 points.
In addition to bakeries, pharmacies, and restaurants, butchers, hairdressers, and ready-to-wear stores have also seen a significant increase in regular visits. In Paris, 90% of local residents are satisfied with the number of small businesses near their homes, appreciating the range of products and services offered and the friendliness of the shopkeepers.
The study also reveals regional preferences. In Nice, bars/cafes and greengrocers are popular, while Bordeaux residents favor fishmongers. In Lyon, delicatessens attract the most gourmets, and in Aix, bookstores are particularly frequented.
- The methodology of the study involved analyzing over 83,000 local businesses and gathering opinions from 4,803 French people in the 30 most populated cities in France through an online survey conducted from April 25 to May 22, 2024.
- Sophie Mahussier emphasized the importance of small businesses in promoting French know-how and actively participating in the life of neighborhoods. She noted that bakeries continue to be the most frequented business by the French, reflecting their attachment to artisanal shops.
