The two groups intend to close several sites, with thousands of jobs at risk in the country. This Tuesday the government calls them to account.
Michel Barnier said Tuesday he wanted it “Know” what the Auchan and Michelin groups have done, which intend to close several factories, jeopardizing thousands of jobs “public money we gave him”. “I am not proud (…) of a policy that would destroy jobs, ever”added the prime minister before the National Assembly, questioned by the president of the communist group And
“I’m interested in knowing what we did in these groups with the public money we gave them. I want to know. So we will ask questions and see if this money has been used well or badly to draw lessons from it.has developed. Michel Barnier said yes “I don’t agree” with the decision of the Michelin automotive group to close its factories in Vannes (Morbihan) and Cholet (Maine-et-Loire), where a total of 1,254 employees work. He indicated that he had met with its CEO Florent Menegaux “a few days ago”. The retailer Auchan, for its part, plans to cut 2,389 jobs, in particular by closing around ten stores, in an attempt to relaunch itself after several complicated financial years.
The Prime Minister hopes that these groups can do so “work with the local fabric, local elected officials (…) unions, local employers, chambers of commerce” deposit “put together (…) all the tools we have to individually support each employee and support these territories in the possibility of reconversion”. “We must create or recreate industrial employment, as well as maintain agricultural employment in our country”said the head of government, referring to the creation at the beginning of 2025 of a “industrial savings book”as well as “European responses” with “less naivety” face foreign competition “not always loyal”.
Interview between Time.news Editor and Economic Expert Dr. Claire Dubois
Time.news Editor: Welcome, Dr. Dubois! Thank you for joining us today. We’re covering an important issue regarding the recent announcements from Auchan and Michelin about potential factory closures in France. This has raised concerns about thousands of jobs being at risk. What’s your immediate reaction to this development?
Dr. Claire Dubois: Thank you for having me! This situation is indeed concerning. The potential closure of factories not only threatens jobs but can also have a ripple effect on local economies. When large employers like Auchan and Michelin decide to shut down operations, we must ask what drove these decisions and how public policies—especially those involving taxpayer money—factor into this.
Time.news Editor: Speaking of public policy, you mentioned taxpayer money. Recently, Michel Barnier called for accountability from these companies regarding the support they received. How crucial do you think this inquiry is for both the government and the public?
Dr. Claire Dubois: It’s absolutely crucial. When taxpayers’ money is used to support these corporations, there’s an inherent expectation that they will reciprocate by preserving jobs and supporting the local economy. Barnier’s demand for accountability reflects a growing frustration among citizens, especially as they see their hard-earned money potentially being linked to job losses. It’s a question of responsibility and fairness.
Time.news Editor: It seems like the balancing act between corporate profitability and public responsibility is at play here. What impacts do you think such closures could have on the overall job market in France?
Dr. Claire Dubois: The immediate impact can be devastating—thousands of people losing their jobs means not just a loss of income for those families, but also reduced spending in the community, which in turn affects local businesses. Over time, we could see a decrease in consumer confidence and a potential increase in government welfare costs as people may need more support. This could lead to a broader economic downturn if not mitigated properly.
Time.news Editor: Given the scale of this issue, what do you think the government should do to address these closures and support the affected workers?
Dr. Claire Dubois: First and foremost, the government needs to engage actively with these companies to understand their motives and explore alternatives to closures. They could provide incentives for companies to keep operations running or to diversify into new areas rather than shutting down. Additionally, targeted retraining programs for workers could help them transition into new roles in growing sectors, especially those related to technology and sustainable industries.
Time.news Editor: It’s clear that proactive measures are necessary. Before we wrap up, is there anything else you would like to emphasize regarding the role of corporations in our economy and their social responsibilities?
Dr. Claire Dubois: Absolutely. Corporations need to recognize that their success is intertwined with the health of the communities in which they operate. Engaging in transparent dialogue with both employees and the government is essential. When businesses take a long-term view that integrates corporate responsibility, not only do they maintain a loyal workforce, but they also contribute to a sustainable economic future.
Time.news Editor: Wise words, Dr. Dubois. Thank you for shedding light on this crucial issue. We hope to see positive developments following this government inquiry.
Dr. Claire Dubois: Thank you for having me. Let’s hope for the best outcome for the workers and the communities affected.