France’s overall business climate improved for a third month in a row to 98 in August 2026 from 95 in the previous month, reaching its highest level since March and moving closer to its long-term average of 100. Retail trade saw the largest gain, with its climate indicator rising to 99 from 96, almost reaching its long-term average, supported by stronger ordering intentions and assessments of past sales. Manufacturing sentiment also strengthened (103 vs 101), mainly due to a sharp improvement in personal production prospects. The services climate edged up to 100 from 99, reaching its long-term average as assessments of past and future activity and expected demand improved. Meanwhile, the building construction climate remained unchanged at 96, below its long-term average, as improved expectations for future activity offset stable assessments of past activity. The employment climate was unchanged at 99.