In a bid to shield its independent bookstores and fortify its cultural heritage, France has unveiled a new law that will impose a minimum delivery fee of €3 on Amazon and other online retailers for book orders.
Starting this Saturday, Oct. 7, this significant development is set to level the playing field between small, local bookshops and tech giants like Amazon.
A Closer Look
EuroNews tells us that France has long been known for its robust support of literature and its unique "cultural exception," which includes price regulations on French-language books, banning discounts exceeding 5 percent of the regular price.
However, the emergence of e-commerce behemoths has posed a substantial challenge to the survival of independent bookstores nationwide.
Before this law's enactment, Amazon charged a meager single euro cent for book deliveries, regardless of the order's total value.
The new regulation mandates that this €3 minimum delivery fee applies to all book orders under €35. This move, nicknamed the "Darcos Law," intends to provide small bookshops, often operating on thin profit margins, a fighting chance to stay afloat in the digital age.
The measure directly aims at a glaring loophole exploited by large conglomerates, allowing them to offer delivery fees as low as €0.01.
In 2014, a precedent known as the "anti-Amazon law" was established, effectively banning free shipping on online book purchases. The Darcos Law is an evolution of France's enduring commitment to protecting its literary heritage.
What This Means
The Times UK tells us that France boasts one of the highest concentrations of independent brick-and-mortar bookstores globally, with an estimated 3,500 shops, over three times the number in the United Kingdom.
These establishments often offer a personalized touch, specializing in unique genres or rare and historic books while hosting in-person events like book signings and discussions.
However, maintaining this vibrant ecosystem has proven increasingly challenging as consumers flock to online giants for the convenience of rapid and low-cost book deliveries.
In the digital era, Amazon's swift delivery model has posed a formidable threat to the existence of these quaint, community-focused bookstores.
Anticipating this regulation, Amazon has been engaged in a protracted legal battle since 2021, arguing that the law infringes on consumer rights.
While awaiting a ruling from the French Council of State, the company has begun informing its customers of the impending delivery fee increase.
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Failed Petition
In June, Amazon appealed to France's highest administrative court to remove a portion of the legislation requiring a minimum 3-euro delivery cost for books ordered online.
Amazon France said that the law's provision requiring a minimum 3-euro delivery fee for books acquired online for less than 35 euros went against the general interest of French consumers at a time of growing costs.
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