the essential
The general meeting of the Ariège federation of tobacconists was held this Sunday, December 1, at the Domaine des Oiseaux in Mazères. Gérard Maury wanted, once again, to warn of the consequences of an increase in the price of cigarettes and tobacco.
What are the highlights of this meeting?
We have something new: the intervention of the Tobacco and Matches Industrial Operation Service (Seita). They will give us figures on counterfeiting and smuggling. We have confidence in their data because they come from manufacturers, contrary to information from the Ministry of the Interior.
What about the prices of cigarettes and tobacco?
We are happy that some deputies opposed the increase in prices (desired by senators during the development of the 2025 Social Security budget, Editor's note). We did not want this increase. This is really bad faith on the part of the State; it is not the price increase that is reducing consumption. On the other hand, this leads to more consumption elsewhere, and insecurity among the police with refusals to comply. The increase creates trafficking, it should be punished as much as drugs.
What does smuggling represent?
This is 40% of consumption in France, I include the parallel market and counterfeiting.
Why continue to sell a product that is dangerous to health?
If it is a dangerous product, then the state prohibits it. Tobacco is legal. It's the same with alcohol, when you consume too much, it's bad for your health.
The tobacconists are not fighting the wrong battle. Shouldn't they be fighting to remove addictive and dangerous substances?
We are doing it, manufacturers have made efforts, just as they have reduced sugar and salt in the diet. Moreover, we sell vaps, composed of water and products. It is a palliative for those who wish to quit smoking.
What do you think about diversification?
We know that we will sell less tobacco over the years. But it still represents 30 to 40% of our turnover, games 30%. Our goal is to diversify, in addition to stamp fines, we are responsible for nursery bills, but this business does not compensate for our two main activities.
How are tobacconists doing in Ariège?
Overall, our offices are viable. There have been three transmissions to young people under the age of forty this year. Commerce remains attractive, there is demand because our activity is supervised and secured by the State. In France, we have ten million customers!
Why be so alarmist then?
If prices are constantly increased, there will be fewer customers and therefore fewer profits. The State pays us every two weeks. I know that some tobacconists already have cash flow problems. These regular increases harm cash flow.
Do you smoke?
From time to time, a little cigar with my doctor cousin. It's still a pleasure, not like those people who automatically smoke cigarette after cigarette.
