In response to the decision of the police prefect to close night shops in Marseille, a protest movement is organizing. The affected shopkeepers express their ardent desire to continue their business activities. This situation highlights the economic and social stakes related to the closure of these establishments. Many merchants believe that this measure could have dramatic consequences for their future.
The Protest of Night Shopkeepers
On March 10, several night shopkeepers gathered in front of the administrative court in Marseille to file a request for a suspension. They are united in a common rallying cry: “All we want is to work”. These men and women, who manage often fragile businesses, wish to make their voices heard and oppose an order that directly threatens their night activity.
Figures That Speak
A shopkeeper testifies that for some of them, 90% of their turnover is generated between 8 PM and midnight. For them, the closure of their establishments would mean a loss of revenue and, ultimately, layoffs. It is therefore imperative for these merchants to demonstrate that an early closure amounts to a deterioration of their financial situation.
The Potential Consequences of Such An Order
The prefect’s decision could lead to a true upheaval in the local economic landscape. Night shopkeepers emphasize that certain nuisances mentioned by the prefecture concern only a limited number of establishments. They advocate for a tailored approach, rather than a generalized measure that penalizes those who comply with the legislation and wish to provide a service to the night owls of Marseille.
The Paths of Justice
The administrative court has heard the arguments of these merchants and has promised to rule soon on the validity of the contested order. The night shopkeepers hope for a favorable decision that will allow them to continue their activity in the middle of the night, for the benefit of consumers and their own economic survival.
In this atmosphere of tension, the reaction of the people of Marseille will be crucial in the coming days. The night shopkeepers hope to mobilize public opinion to support their fight and find a favorable outcome to this situation. The consequences of a closure could not only affect the merchants but also the customers who rely on them for essential products outside of regular opening hours.
It is undeniable that night shopkeepers play an important role in the nightlife of Marseille, and their motivation to continue working is beyond doubt. This tug-of-war with the administration illustrates the complex issues governing night commerce and raises an essential question: to what extent can an administrative decision impact the economic life of a sector?
The mobilization of night shopkeepers in Marseille reveals a reality that many seem to forget. While some advocate for the closure of these establishments for reasons of safety and public tranquility, the merchants worry about the impact this would have on their way of life. They ask for nothing more than the right to work and serve a often overlooked clientele. In the coming days, the outcome of this case could mark a decisive turning point in the relationship between the police, the city, and these small businesses that contribute to the vibrancy and diversity of Marseille.
