French Local Economies Get a Boost from Intermediate-sized Enterprises and PRÉSAJÉO Project

On June 12, 2026, significant efforts to revitalize local economies in France took center stage with two key developments. In Alès, the PRÉSAJÉO project marked a milestone as the first stone was laid at the Prés-Saint-Jean neighborhood, signaling the start of a major real estate development aimed at rejuvenating this district through the creation of commercial activity spaces.

Simultaneously, in Marseille, the 11th club of Intermediate-sized Enterprises (ETI) in France gathered to forge a path toward economic renewal. Co-founded by Geneviève Melkonian, the club aims to strengthen France's economy and reinforce its leadership in Europe. Melkonian highlighted the urgency of current support for ETIs, stating, "Our ETIs will not exist tomorrow if they do not have today the vital forces that allow them to continue."

With France housing approximately 7,200 ETIs employing over 4 million people, the Sud region alone accounts for 360 companies representing 40% of its economic activity. The club, created in September, currently includes 38 members across five departments and targets 50 members by next September to amplify their influence. The ETI club’s agenda features a European ETI summit and discussions on artificial intelligence and salary transparency.

The club is pushing for reforms to improve competitiveness, notably by advocating for a reduction in mandatory taxes—since employers often pay nearly three times the net salary in charges—and simplifying administrative procedures. Guillaume Kasbarian, deputy of Eure-et-Loir, underscored the importance of reducing public spending and taxes, streamlining red tape, and fostering a skilled workforce to attract investment to the Sud region.

The ETIs contribute significantly to local economic and cultural vitality, supported by the 'étincelle' program, which has accelerated growth in about twenty companies over six years. Facing rising global competition, Melkonian emphasized the strategic advantage of focusing on local production and quality niches.

Together, the PRÉSAJÉO project in Alès and the concerted efforts of intermediate-sized enterprises in Marseille symbolize a broader push to revitalize French local economies through targeted development and business advocacy.