French Cooperage Continues to Adjust to Global Market Uncertainty

French cooperage faces another slowdown in activity

After a first year of decline, the French cooperage industry recorded another slowdown in 2025-2026. Turnover fell by 11.7% to €471 million, following a 9.5% decrease the previous year. Sales volumes also dropped, with 485,871 barrels sold (-14%). Unlike the previous financial year, exports declined more sharply than the domestic market, although international sales still account for the majority of the sector’s business.

France and the United States remain the leading markets, followed by Spain, Italy and Australia. The Americas posted the steepest decline, reflecting weaker demand in the United States.
Large-format oak vessels (700 litres and above) also experienced a significant contraction in both value and volume. According to Magdeleine Allaume, President of the Fédération des Tonneliers de France, the downturn is mainly explained by temporary factors, including trade tensions, US measures affecting exports, Chinese duties on certain European spirits and inventory corrections after the post-pandemic boom.
Despite current challenges, the sector remains confident. Premium wines continue to support demand, while barrel ageing remains a key value-enhancing tool for high-end wines, offering promising long-term opportunities for French cooperage.