Everything you need to know about “Made in France”
What does the term "Made in France" refer to?
First of all, when we talk about a product being 'Made in France' or 'Made in France', we are referring to the production and not to the origin of its raw materials. Example: A cotton sweater may be 'Made in France' even though its cotton comes from Asia.
Next, you should know that in Europe, it is not mandatory to indicate the place of origin of manufacture or raw materials on the packaging (except for certain agricultural or food products). This indication is therefore optional. However, to affix the words "Made in France" or "Fabriqué en France" on its packaging, the manufacturer must respect the rules imposed by the customs services .
These rules are simple: when the production factors of a product come from several countries, it is sufficient for the last substantial transformation of the product to be in France, for the product to have its origin. In short, raw materials and the various stages of manufacturing do not count in the final mention. This notion of "substantial transformation" is also defined by Customs and can cover the different points below:
- A customs codification different from that of non-French raw materials and components
- Respect a maximum threshold of value of non-French raw materials and components in relation to their price
- Having carried out operations transforming non-French raw materials and components
This concept is distinguished from the various existing labels , which are awarded by an independent body and comply with specific specifications . This is the case, for example, of the Label Origine France Garantie , the Label France Terre Textile or the Label Entreprise du Patrimoine Vivant . These allow companies to promote their production by giving greater visibility to the origin of their products.
Why choose Made in France?
A 2017 survey revealed that 74% of French people surveyed said they were willing to pay more for a product made in France. And there are several reasons for this. First of all, buying a Made in France product is a way to help maintain employment in France and support national industry . Second, in a context of ecological awareness , Made in France reduces transport and thus its environmental impact. Finally, it helps preserve quality national know-how . For all these reasons, many entrepreneurs are getting into French manufacturing, with the desire to revive industrial patriotism.
Made in France does have some disadvantages, however: it's more expensive . For manufactured products, from manufacturing cost to retail price, Made in France is generally more expensive. The French say they're willing to pay 10% more for a French-made product. Beyond that, their willingness to buy is lacking.
However, consuming French products remains an excellent way to support the French economy and industries , by promoting short supply chains. It also limits unnecessary transport that pollutes our planet by supporting small, ethical and responsible businesses .
And Leonia in all this?
Léonia production is entirely Made in France . Ingredients of natural origin such as white tea, the brand's flagship active ingredient, are harvested in Vietnam, in the Yen Bai region . It is a fair trade certified cooperative , entirely managed by women, which harvests organic white tea once a year. The cooperative benefits from clean working conditions and fair wages , as well as a bonus allowing the construction of roads, schools and houses . Thus, Léonia supports the local population of Yen Bai while harvesting quality natural ingredients .
Once the various active ingredients have been harvested in their countries of origin, different manufacturing stages take place in France:
- The formulation of the products is created in a Parisian laboratory .
- White tea is brewed in Ardèche , then processed in Ile-de-France .
- The glass bottles are screen printed in Brittany .
- The cardboard cases, for their part, are made in Nantes .
- Finally, the finished product is sent and stored in Pays de la Loire .
The packaging, from the cardboard to the caps, has been designed with a responsible approach. Everything is recyclable , and glass is preferred. Discover the entire organic, natural, and responsible range in the online store .
