This guide is based on official data from INSEE, CCI France and competent public organizations. Information is verified and updated regularly.
1. Precisely define your target market
First and foremost, clearly identify the scope of your market. Ask yourself the right questions: who are your potential customers? What geographic area are you targeting? What is the market volume in value and number of customers?
In France, INSEE and territorial CCIs provide updated sector-specific data. Use these free resources before investing in paid studies.
2. Analyze existing competition
Map your direct and indirect competitors. For each competitor, note:
- Price positioning
- Strengths and weaknesses perceived by customers (Google reviews, Trustpilot)
- Estimated market share
- Distribution channels used
This analysis will allow you to identify unexploited opportunities and build a credible competitive advantage.
3. Question your future customers directly
No documentary study replaces direct contact with your prospects. Conduct at least 30 qualitative interviews or 200 responses to an online questionnaire.
Essential questions to ask:
- What problem are you trying to solve?
- How are you solving it today?
- How much would you be willing to pay for a better solution?
- What selection criteria are priorities for you?
4. Estimate projected revenue
Based on collected data, build 3 scenarios: pessimistic, realistic and optimistic. Your business plan will be based on the realistic scenario, but investors appreciate seeing that you have considered the extremes.
Simple method: number of reachable customers × average basket × purchase frequency = projected annual revenue.
5. Validate economic viability
Compare your projected revenue to your fixed and variable costs. A viable project must reach its break-even point within 18 to 24 months for the majority of businesses.
Don't forget to include often underestimated charges: professional liability insurance, accounting, employer social contributions, bank fees and digital marketing.
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Source: Guide to business creation, CCI France 2025-2026.