Logistics sector needs to be ‘wage aware’ of French legislation change

Leading freight expert Rhenus UK is urging the logistics industry to be aware of new minimum wage legislation implemented in France. The law, which came in to effect on 1 July 2016, mandates all transport companies to pay their drivers the French minimum wage when making deliveries in France

The ‘Loi Macron’ applies to any foreign driver or haulier operating in or through France, and will require drivers to have a French payslip, a French employment contract and a union agreement outlining the full terms and conditions of their employment.

While the impact of this on the pan-European logistics industry remains unclear, it is important transport operators are aware of the implications of this legislation – and how they can ensure they stay on the right side of the law.

Failure to comply with the legislation could result in a fine for logistics companies, and follows similar regulations launched in Germany last year.

David Williams, managing director of Rhenus Logistics UK, explains: “The introduction of the Loi Macron has been on the horizon for some time, and now it’s finally in place, I’d urge logistics managers to ensure that they remain compliant. The situation remains changeable, with the European Commission issuing an infringement procedure in June which stated that the new regulations created disproportionate administration for transport operators.

“It remains to be seen how well enforced this ruling will be in France, but I would encourage transport operators to err on the side of caution and ensure that their drivers have the correct documentation to hand when transporting goods to, or through, France.”