Arcachon Restaurants Struggle through a Disrupted Summer Season
Marion machat,manager of the “Le Jardin” restaurant in Arcachon’s Moulleau district,is experiencing an unusual summer. The restaurant, with seating for 40 indoors and 100 on its terrace, has seen a meaningful drop in customers.
“The month of June was rather successful with good weather, but from mid-July, when the season normally starts, customers have completely deserted our restaurants. I have never seen this in twenty years of profession!”
Machat reports a 30% decrease in attendance this summer, coupled with a roughly 20% decline in the average customer spend, falling from €38 to €32.
Customers are exhibiting changed spending habits.
“People order the cheapest glass of wine and take an entrance or dessert to share. Conversely,I have never seen so many tourists passing with coolers to go picnic on the beach noon and evening.”
When questioned about perhaps high menu prices, Machat explains that decreasing margins and volumes make price adjustments difficult. She cites rising costs, such as the price of alcohulum bib increasing from €5 to a higher, undisclosed amount per kilo, as a contributing factor.
As a result of these challenges, the restaurant has reduced its staff from 16 to 14 employees this summer.
A Disjointed Season
Further north, Guillaume Jacques, of Quaranti…
Key Takeaways
- Arcachon restaurants are experiencing a significant downturn in business this summer.
- Customer spending is down, with diners opting for cheaper options or choosing to picnic instead.
- Rising costs for restaurant supplies are impacting profitability.
- Restaurants are being forced to reduce staff to cope with the economic pressures.
Publication Date: 2025/09/04 01:07:45