Christmas: 3 good reasons to offer something made in France

As the holiday season approaches and it's time to help Santa fill his sack, an age-old dilemma resurfaces: how to give meaningful gifts? To bring joy without harming the planet, one option seems ideal: a gift made in France. But why is this choice more sensible in times of austerity? Here are three compelling reasons to choose French gifts.

1. Know what you are buying… and what you are giving

The French say they are more attentive than ever to the origin of their goods: since the Covid epidemic, 64% believe they have increased their consumption of French products, according to an OpinionWay survey for the Insign agency, and 67% even say they are ready to pay more to acquire them.

But here's the thing: between fads, misleading marketing (hello, greenwashing!), and fraud, the "made in France" concept is often misused. So how can we distinguish between genuine and fake "made in France" products ? By taking a closer look at the labels and certifications.

An example: the Origine France Garantie certification.

At JULES & JENN, some of our made-in-France products have been certified Origine France Garantie , a label from the Pro France association that guarantees that products are "really" made in France, because they meet two criteria: 50% of the cost price of the product was acquired in France and the essential stages of the product's manufacture are carried out on national territory.

This label is also proof of respect for the working conditions of French artisans, who adhere to strict social and health standards in the factories where the products are made. The certification audits are indeed conducted within the manufacturing workshops themselves.

2. Contribute to environmental preservation

Beyond traceability, choosing local production means opting for a company committed to eco-responsible manufacturing by prioritizing short supply chains, thus combating CO2 emissions caused by imports from distant countries. Indeed, the shorter the journey between the production of your order and your shopping cart, the smaller the carbon footprint.

Our carbon footprint assessment has shown us that a product made in France guarantees more environmentally friendly manufacturing and distribution. When you add to that recycling processes (destroying materials to recover reusable raw materials) or upcycling (recovering leather scraps to make small leather goods, for example), the CO2 emission reductions can make all the difference for the sake of the planet and the environment.

upcycled pouches made in France by Jules & Jenn

Upcycled leather envelope pouches

3. Promote employment in our regions

Prioritizing French products also means preserving (or even saving) traditional skills that have made our reputation as a country. A striking example: the Charentaise slipper .

This jewel of our heritage nearly disappeared with the closure of numerous workshops in the Charente region, crippled by competition from low-cost foreign labor. After massive relocation and devastating layoffs, and thanks to a handful of determined entrepreneurs, this cozy icon is now being reborn in our partner workshop in La Rouchefoucauld , still crafted using the traditional stitch-and-turn technique.

Buying French means maintaining and developing employment in France, which means actively supporting our country's economy. This support is all the more important during this post-health crisis period. Furthermore, in a context of energy conservation and inflation, choosing quality products that are more durable, more locally sourced, and more resistant avoids having to buy clothes or shoes very frequently. It's an initial investment, but a long-term saving and a committed action.