Economic slowdown: the SDI calls for immediate measures to support very small businesses

The employers' organization fears a slowdown in public action in the lead-up to the 2027 presidential election, while many self-employed individuals and small business owners are facing a decline in their business.

An economic situation that weakens small businesses

The concerns of very small businesses come at a time when several economic indicators are deteriorating. The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) recently warned of the economic consequences that a protracted conflict in the Middle East could have on global growth, energy prices, and international trade.

At the same time, the French government's budgetary intervention capabilities appear limited, reducing the room for maneuver to support economic activity or to implement new business support mechanisms.

The SDI fears a paralysis of economic decisions before 2027

For the Independent Workers' Union, the approach of the presidential election could lead to a postponement of certain structuring decisions for businesses.

For Marc Sanchez, general secretary of the SDI: “Small business owners feel that the country has already entered the pre-presidential phase. Decisions are being postponed, reforms delayed, and difficult choices avoided. Yet, small businesses continue to face rising costs, a slowdown in activity, and a growing number of bankruptcies. The next president won't be elected for another year. Until then, thousands of small businesses will have to continue paying their taxes, salaries, and suppliers. They can't wait until 2027 for answers. For its part, the SDI (Syndicat des Indépendants – Independent Business Owners Union) has already initiated a series of discussions with political leaders and the upcoming presidential candidates to ensure that the concerns of the self-employed and small businesses are fully integrated into the upcoming debates. Every minute counts, and it's essential for our business owners to have some assurances and certainty regarding the management of their companies.”

Rising costs, declining activity and bankruptcies: concerns persist

The SDI emphasizes that very small businesses continue to face several simultaneous difficulties: increased operating costs, slowdown in orders, cash flow pressures and an increase in the number of business failures.

This situation particularly affects sectors composed mainly of small structures, such as crafts, local commerce, services or construction, where managers must continue to assume the payment of salaries, social security contributions and suppliers despite reduced economic visibility.

Discussions have already begun with prospective candidates

Faced with these challenges, the Independent Workers' Union indicates that it has engaged in discussions with several political leaders as well as with future candidates for the presidential election.

The stated objective is to raise the concerns of self-employed workers and managers of very small businesses so that their issues — financing, taxation, charges, administrative simplification and support for activity — are fully taken into account in the economic debates of the coming months.

A need for visibility for entrepreneurs

For the SDI, the priority is now to preserve a clear and predictable economic framework for small businesses. In an environment marked by geopolitical uncertainties, international economic tensions, and a slowdown in activity in France, the leaders of very small businesses primarily demand visibility in order to anticipate their investments, secure their cash flow, and ensure the long-term viability of their companies.

Illustrative image of the article via Depositphotos.com.