DEEP FRUSTRATION

On December 17, 2025, building tradespeople made their voices heard across France, following a call from CAPEB. In front of prefectures throughout the country, they expressed a deep and legitimate sense of “fed up” frustration with schemes that have become unstable, complex, and too often disconnected from on-the-ground realities. At the heart of the anger were the MaPrimeRénov’ scheme, which has become completely unreadable, and the PMCB EPR system, which is totally unsuited.
“The political deadlock means that private individuals are no longer investing in renovation work. We need to recreate a climate of confidence, and we are asking the government to make decisions that restore that confidence,” said Jean-Christophe Repon, President of CAPEB, during his visit to Lille (59).

Exceptional in its scale, this mobilization above all highlighted a profession running out of steam. Testimonials hung on prefecture railings, symbolic deposits of construction waste, public statements… the tradespeople reminded everyone that they are not mere executors, but essential and undeniable players in the country’s energy, economic, and societal transition. On the ground, the message was unanimous and the frustration widespread: “Everything is at a standstill,” simplifying administrative procedures is a “priority,” and the government must “keep its promises.” Behind these words lies a single demand: clear, stable, and workable rules—indispensable to the sustainability of craft businesses.

As 2025 draws to a close, this mobilization should be heard as a strong signal. Tradespeople remain mobilized, united, and full of solutions. Hoping that this message will pave the way for decisions equal to the challenges of 2026, the entire Artisans & Bois editorial team joins me in wishing you a very happy new year, full of hope and projects.

ADELE CAZIER

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