Find sales agents or sales representatives in France

For a lot of products working with a local sales agent or with a dedicated sales representative can be a good solution.

Especially if you have a customized product or service, or you want to work with a number of resellers in the country, an agent can be the one connecting these parties to your organization abroad.

Agents can be individuals, but I often recommend to work with established companies who already have a good network and where you are not dependent on just one person.

Set up your sales force in France

France and the United Kingdom have been alternating each other as the second economy of Europe. France is a highly centralized country where mostly in Paris the decisions are made. Other major cities include Marseille, Lyon, Toulouse, and Nice.

As of 2024, France’s population is projected to be around 64.88 million. The country experiences a modest population growth, with a growth rate of approximately 0.15%.

France has one of the world’s largest economies, known for its diverse industrial sectors, including aerospace, automotive, and luxury goods. It is also a leading agricultural producer within Europe.

France’s intelligent economical framework sees diversification across all sectors with the government either partly or entirely privatising larger conglomerates. These include companies such as Renault, Air France, France Telecom and Thales among others. The government’s strong hold however is predominantly found in the power, defence and public transport industries.

Agent, local office or distance selling?

An agent sells in your name for a commission and has limited room to negotiate. A local office gives you full control, but costs staff and facilities. Distance selling works when your product can be delivered and serviced from abroad.

Be careful with agent contracts. In many countries agents are well protected by law, and ending the relationship can mean compensating the income you take away. Agree territory, targets, commission and termination before you start.

Do you need help in France?

Our service providers are local specialists. They know the market, the regulations and the parties that matter, and they can support you with the steps on this page.

Ask a professional

Finding a sales agent in France in three steps

Step 1

Describe the role

Decide what the agent does: generate leads only, or close deals and handle after-sales too. Set the territory, the type of customer and the commission.

Step 2

Find and screen

Prefer an established agency over a single individual. Check which brands they carry, whether those compete with you, and ask two of their clients for a reference.

Step 3

Contract and manage

Put targets, reporting, commission and termination in writing, and plan regular contact. An agent who hears nothing from you sells nothing for you.