French consumers are approaching the 2026 holiday season with caution, as economic uncertainty and pressure on household budgets weigh on spending intentions. According to an exclusive LSA x YouGov survey, conducted on 7–8 September among 1,008 adults, 58% of the French population remain pessimistic about the months ahead.
While 75% intend to celebrate Christmas, more than half (52%) expect the current economic climate to change their plans. Of these, 75% anticipate reducing their overall budget, while 26% plan to invite fewer guests and 19% expect to cut back on family travel. Value for money will remain a priority, with 72% intending to pay closer attention to promotions than last year.
The outlook for festive FMCG is consequently difficult to predict. According to Circana, festive food products, including foie gras and seasonal chocolates, recorded a 1.8% decline in value and a 3.6% fall in volume during the 2025 season. Sales in hypermarkets were particularly challenging, with value down 3.9%.
Looking ahead, 51% of French consumers expect their festive food budget to remain stable, while 27% anticipate spending less. Circana identifies two possible scenarios for the coming season: modest growth if consumers continue to treat themselves, or declining volumes as households become more cautious with their spending. The coming weeks should provide a clearer indication of which trend will prevail.