At the Paris Fair, the artisans of Made in France fear the consequences of war
It’s the usual decor of large conventions: colorful pictograms, mascots, banners, and mazes of security barriers. And in the midst of it all, under the shadow of the immense Tour Triangle, thousands of people gathered on Thursday morning for the opening of the Paris Fair. This annual trade festival created in 1904 kicked off its 122nd edition on Thursday, April 30, and will run until Monday, May 11.
This year, the grand salon highlights the “Made in Paris” event, showcasing French craftsmanship. In spaces bounded by tricolor lines on the floor, hundreds of artisans try to attract visitors. But as you walk past the stands, one recurring topic stands out: the supply chain difficulties related to the war in the Middle East.
Stéphane, 59, founded MyEssenciel, specializing in precision cabinetmaking. Thirty years ago, he found a niche with the eco-friendly trend. Watches, sunglasses: the artisan displays his finest pieces, all made of French wood, leather, and glass. But since the beginning of the conflict, costs have been piling up. “Everything has increased: raw materials, transportation, fuel,” he says.
[Context: The Paris Fair is an annual trade event that has been taking place since 1904. Made in Paris is an event within the fair that celebrates French craftsmanship.]
[Fact Check: The article depicts the challenges faced by French artisans due to supply chain disruptions caused by the war in the Middle East.]
