Carrefour shares plunge on stock exchange: 'Unprecedented situation in France'

Carrefour shares plummeted more than 13% on the Paris Stock Exchange after the company slashed its 2026 forecasts following riots that damaged over 50 stores. The hit to operating profit could reach €200 million. The CEO described the situation as 'unprecedented'.

Carrefour shares plunged more than 13% on the Paris Stock Exchange after the French retail chain cut its financial forecasts for 2026. The reason: widespread riots in France that damaged over 50 stores, some of which were completely looted. The company estimates the impact on operating profit could reach €200 million, due to store damage, a decline in customer numbers, and increased security costs. Carrefour's global CEO, Alexandre Bompard, described the situation as 'unprecedented'. CFO Matthieu Malige estimated the damage range at €80 to €200 million. Earlier forecasts had predicted double-digit growth in operating profit, but now no growth is expected in 2026. Meanwhile, the yield on the French 10-year bond continues to break records, reaching levels not seen in nearly 20 years.