France Deploys Extensive Security Measures Ahead of Planned Protests and Luxury Store Safeguards

Luxury stores in France have reinforced their security measures and protected their glass facades in anticipation of protests scheduled for Saturday, following a wave of vandalism and looting that targeted hundreds of shops in several cities last week. Employees reported that stores such as Rolex and De Beers near Place Vendôme in Paris will remain closed, while other shops are considering reducing their opening hours depending on how the situation develops. As part of security preparations, French Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez announced the deployment of 70,000 police officers, supported by specialized units, to prevent a resurgence of violence. Student groups and the Yellow Vests movement are expected to organize a march in central Paris protesting rising living costs and cuts to public service spending. These developments come amid a slowdown in demand and weakened consumer confidence in luxury brands, with concerns about the impact of security disturbances on shopping and tourism sectors in France.