From marketplaces to eco-mobility, we are witnessing the emergence of new consumer habits. According to Républik Retail, 17% of French people appreciate second-hand fashion. In this context, lending institutions are called to rethink their strategies and loan offers.
A survey of the new consumption trends favored by the French
Whether it concerns housing, food, or mobility, it is clear that all sectors of consumption are undergoing major upheavals.
Consumption behaviours and choices evolving in an ethical direction
The rise of digitalisation and digital tools has profoundly transformed the consumer purchasing journey. There is also a shift in mindsets. In line with sustainable development policies, responsible consumption is on the rise. The success of short supply chains, such as peer-to-peer rentals, is an eloquent manifestation. The growing appeal of second-hand products is likewise evident. According to ADEME, the amount of household goods that have been reused surpassed one million tonnes by the end of the 2010s (versus 567,000 at the beginning).
Renewed purchasing journeys
Although the traditional physical store still holds public favour, the French have also renewed the way they shop. The success of drive-throughs is emblematic of the trend. According to E-commerce Nation, 32% of French households use it regularly. Reflective of a highly connected society, online commerce is also flourishing. Its revenue surpassed 196 billion euros in 2025, according to Fevad.
“A loan commits you and must be repaid. Verify your repayment capacity before you commit.”
Financing solutions reinventing themselves
To realize their dreams and access the goods that matter to them, the French now have several alternatives. Financing their projects requires, in this perspective, tailored responses.
Actors who know how to adapt to the spirit of the times
Today, subscribing to a consumer loan is no longer the same as it was ten years ago. In step with new consumption modes, consumer credit has indeed evolved to become more agile and transparent. Take Cofidis as an example. An expert in the field of credit offers, the company closely follows the evolution of legislation and commits to applying the new rules in force. Particular emphasis is also placed on changes in consumer mindsets. The focus is on financial education. The objective is to offer financing options that meet a demand for ethics and clarity.
Promoting responsible credit
If we refer to the data available on the Cofidis Group website, expenditures financed in France through consumer credit amount to 15 billion euros net. Such a mechanism proves to be an important support for growth. For Cofidis, borrowing should enable dreams to come true without putting the borrower’s financial situation at risk. In this regard, the group has worked to overhaul its online tools. The process to apply for a loan is now simple, intuitive, and transparent. The risk of unpleasant surprises is reduced with the absence of hidden fees. Moreover, an online consumer credit simulator helps to find a solution that matches one’s needs. All of the above measures contribute to the prevention and fight against over-indebtedness.
A particular emphasis on supporting customers
The evolution of lending institutions is not limited to updating credit offers and using innovative digital tools. It also manifests in the frank and loyal relationship with customers.
Building a relationship of trust
According to Mathieu Dumay, a manager at Cofidis, the group works “in order to offer a strong relational experience to our clients.” According to him, a “collaborative, human-centered approach works!” Such a policy has indeed allowed Cofidis to be named Customer Service of the Year 2026 in the Payment Solutions category.
Strong commitments
In a spirit of transparency, Cofidis clearly states its commitments. Credit management is carried out entirely online via a secure space. Once the request is made, a preliminary response is provided immediately. The transfer of funds takes place within eight days upon express request by the borrower. Requesting a loan is a decision that requires solid support. Clients who need it can seek the expertise of a Cofidis specialist by phone, by chat, by email, by post, or by Messenger. People with disabilities also have adapted means, such as the possibility of communicating in sign language. Tailored products and personalized support are finally offered.
Financing solutions evolve in parallel with changes in consumption patterns. A major emphasis is now placed on transparency, ethics, and innovation.
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