Pessimism is spreading among artisans, who are slowing down investments and recruitment.

The morale of craftsmen deteriorates sharply at the start of the 2026 academic year. According to the barometer published by CMA France, the network of chambers of trades and crafts, 46% of the professionals surveyed declare themselves pessimistic about the future of their business, compared to 31% who remain optimistic.

The balance of power has shifted in just one year: in 2025, 52% of the artisans surveyed still expressed confidence. According to CMA France, the observed deterioration affects all sectors of the craft industry.

Political and geopolitical uncertainties are increasing

Economic difficulties and inflation remain the main concerns expressed. However, the political context is playing an increasingly important role: it is now cited by 39% of artisans, an increase of 19 points in one year.

Geopolitical and trade tensions are a concern for 28% of respondents. Their share has increased by 16 points compared to the previous barometer.

This accumulation of uncertainties is directly impacting financial prospects. Only 55% of artisans say they are confident in their ability to achieve their objectives in 2026, compared to 82% in 2025.

Investment and hiring plans are declining

This caution is also reflected in development decisions. Only 29% of craft business owners plan to invest in the coming months, a proportion that has fallen by 37 points in a year.

Recruitment intentions are equally limited. Nearly three out of four artisans, or 74%, do not plan any hiring, including in the form of apprenticeship contracts.

These results suggest that the decline in confidence could prolong its effects on business equipment, employment and skills renewal.

A strong attachment to the profession remains

Economic pessimism does not necessarily mean professional disengagement. According to the barometer, 85% of craftspeople say they still feel the "spark" for their trade. Furthermore, 73% believe that craftsmanship perfectly aligns with their professional aspirations.

"For the most part, craftsmen have not lost faith in their trade, but (...) in the conditions under which they practice it," summarized Joël Fourny, president of CMA France.

For the network's president, this barometer constitutes "a warning message": "we must give artisans back visibility, confidence and stability."

Faced with their difficulties, 64% of the professionals surveyed are calling for increased support from public authorities. In particular, they expect more operational support.

CMA France raises concerns about apprenticeship funding

The network of chambers of trades and crafts is also concerned about the situation of its apprenticeship training centers. The government has notably announced a 1,85% increase in the funding levels for apprenticeship contracts, also known as NPEC.

CMA France believes, however, that this measure is not enough to consolidate the economic model of its training centers, which are facing a decrease in staff, an increase in their expenses and funding considered insufficient.

Julien Gondard, the managing director of CMA France, is questioning, in particular, "the strategic priorities of the State." He notes that some funding levels range from 9.300 to 11.000 euros for training in banking and financial law, legal and institutional history, musicology, philosophy, or theology.

At the same time, this funding would be less than 7.000 euros for several craft training courses preparing in particular for the trades of optician, pastry chef, hairdresser, mechanic or mason.