Essonne SMEs face critical business succession challenges

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Essonne, France, are facing a significant challenge regarding business succession. With nearly 370,000 employer businesses expected to change hands by 2030 due to retiring leaders, there is a risk of losing local expertise and jobs.

Data from Bpifrance Le Lab indicates a gap in successful transfers: while there is a potential for 74,000 annual transitions, only 26,000 currently succeed. To address this, support networks such as Réseau Entreprendre Essonne and the association C. R. A (Cédants et Repreneurs d’Affaires) are working to structure guidance for both sellers and buyers to prevent economic decline in the region.