Business owners in Paris have begun boarding up their shopfronts ahead of nationwide protests against rising living costs scheduled to take place across France on Saturday. According to UAE News agency, Viory, shopkeepers were seen transporting protective boards through the French capital and fixing them over shop windows to guard…...
Business owners in Paris have begun boarding up their shopfronts ahead of nationwide protests against rising living costs scheduled to take place across France on Saturday.
According to UAE News agency, Viory, shopkeepers were seen transporting protective boards through the French capital and fixing them over shop windows to guard against possible damage during the demonstrations.
One business owner said the decision was a precautionary measure amid uncertainty over how the protests would unfold.
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“We don’t know what’s going to happen. Some of our neighbours have done it, others haven’t. Maybe nothing will happen at all. But we’re taking precautions just in case,” he said.
The shopkeeper recalled suffering losses during France’s Yellow Vest protests, which were marked by demonstrations against economic inequality and rising living costs.
“Our previous shop was damaged during the Yellow Vest protests. All eight of our shop windows were smashed,” he said.
He added, “And insurance doesn’t cover the cost of replacing them.”
Saturday’s nationwide mobilisation, organised through social media, is expected to draw protesters onto the streets of Paris and other French cities over the rising cost of living, including fuel prices.
French authorities are preparing for more than 300 demonstrations and protest actions nationwide, while organisers have announced plans for about 1,000 gatherings.
In Paris, several demonstrations are scheduled to take place, including gatherings near Avenue de Wagram and Avenue Montaigne.