Maximilien Carlier (in Villeneuve-d'Ascq), edited by Solène Leroux 07:24, April 29, 2022

Due to the Russian invasion in Ukraine, the main producer of sunflower oil, exports are impossible.

The shortage is starting to be felt in some French supermarkets.

In chip shops in the north of France, some are reluctant to raise prices, as in Villeneuve-d'Ascq, near Lille.

REPORT

Will the cone of fries become a luxury product?

Due to the war in Ukraine, the main producer of sunflower oil, exports are difficult.

In some supermarkets there are shortages.

In chip shops in the north of France, some are reluctant to raise prices.

Others have already taken the plunge.

In the chip shop of the town hall in Villeneuve-d'Ascq, near Lille, Mohamed had no choice.

His fries, he now sells them more expensive.

"The small fries went from 2 to 2.50 euros. The large one from 3 to 3.50 euros", details the boss at the microphone of Europe 1.

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"You don't make money on fries anymore"

A net increase of 50 cents.

This is a direct consequence of the price of sunflower oil which has more than doubled according to this manager.

"Six months ago, my 25-litre container cost me 30 euros. Today, wholesalers no longer do the 25 litres", he explains.

"On the other hand, that of ten liters costs me 27 euros. You no longer make money in the fry", plague Mohamed.

The other difficulty for this chip shop owner concerns the supply.

It is rationed at its wholesaler.

In order to avoid a shortage, it is limited to a maximum of 20 litres.

© MAXIMILIEN CARLIER / EUROPE 1

More expensive fries, smaller portions 

However, raising prices is not enough, this chip shop manager must also play on quantities.

"I am reducing my shares. Before, I filled my tray with small fries. Today, I put it at three quarters. It's all in the calculation", he laments.

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On the customer side, the reduction in portions and the increase in prices do not seem to bother too much: "Even if it is 50 cents more, it does not matter. The chip shops must also earn their bread, it is quite normal."

It remains to be seen how the regulars will react when the menus increase by one euro, wonders Mohamed who absolutely wants to avoid closing.