Reims' Local Economy Shows Resilience Amid Judicial Economic Challenges in 2025

The local economy of Reims demonstrated notable resilience throughout 2025 despite encountering some economic tensions. The Commercial Court of Reims reported a slight 2.4% increase in collective procedures and a more significant 11.4% rise in judicial recoveries, indicating an improved capacity to save faltering businesses. Remarkably, the number of employees affected by these procedures declined by 40% compared to 2024, showcasing a reduction in the human impact of economic difficulties.

Court President Étienne Le Du emphasized the importance of viewing the Commercial Court not just as a last resort but as a preventive mechanism to support struggling enterprises. This is reflected in a decrease in ad hoc mandates and conciliation procedures from the previous year, suggesting businesses are moving beyond the immediate post-COVID crisis phase. While liquidations stabilized at 235, the court primarily handled very small businesses traditionally facing long-term fragility.

Moreover, the local economy’s strength is highlighted by the repayment of over 90% of COVID-related loans, particularly benefiting the champagne and agro-industrial sectors. However, uncertainties remain, prompting calls for greater visibility and support for businesses. Looking ahead, President Le Du identified two major challenges for 2026: integrating Artificial Intelligence into legal processes and expanding court competencies to enhance early prevention of business difficulties.

Nationally, France’s economy also showed resilience, with 2025 growth reaching 0.9%, higher than expected. Yet challenges persist, including a budget deficit exceeding 5% of GDP and growing geopolitical risks that could affect market stability. These developments underscore the critical need for sustained economic reforms, particularly ahead of 2027, to solidify growth and stabilize public finances.