The French home furniture market experienced a significant slowdown in March 2026, with sales declining 6.3% year-on-year, according to figures released by IPEA – Institut de la Maison.
The weaker March performance pushed the market to a cumulative first-quarter decline of 2.1%, reflecting continued pressure on household spending and softer retail activity across the sector.
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According to the institute, the downturn was partly influenced by an unfavourable calendar effect, with March 2026 containing one less Saturday than the same period last year. Retailers also faced additional challenges linked to rising fuel prices and reports of fuel shortages at some service stations, which may have reduced store traffic.
All distribution channels recorded declines during the month, although online retailers proved more resilient than physical retail formats. Mid-range and premium furniture brands were among the weakest-performing segments, while all product categories experienced contraction.
The sector continues to face broader macroeconomic pressures, including political uncertainty, geopolitical tensions, energy price volatility, and concerns over inflation, all contributing to subdued consumer confidence in France.
While some early signs of stabilisation are emerging within the housing market, IPEA – Institut de la Maison has revised its outlook and now forecasts the French furniture market could contract by around 5% across 2026.
Source: www.meuble-info.fr
