The imposing building with its elegant facade sits in the shopping street of Vesle, in the city center of Reims (Marne). “Modern store”, proclaims a sculpted pediment inherited from the last century. Above the glass doors, the BHV (Bazar de l’Hôtel de Ville) sign replaced that of “Galeries Lafayette”. The interior does not depart, with its floors with ornate balustrades, running around a large atrium. Discount labels have popped up everywhere, due to sales. But here and there, shelves and displays are bare, in the leather goods, shoes, beauty and jewelry departments.
“It’s sad to cry,” says Florence, a bubbly blonde in a skirt and ankle boots. We can clearly see that the salespeople are displaying the brand’s products Ga’Laf to fill the void. » This professional dentist has been coming here “since she was a kid”. “At Christmas, I usually come to buy small gifts for my five children: socks, underwear… This year, there was nothing left. »