After several days of open conflict with the French Ministry of the Economy and Finance, insurers have agreed to freeze the rates of multi-risk professional policies for companies most affected by the health crisis, particularly those in the hotel and restaurant sector. This freeze on insurance premiums concerns contracts for the year 2021 for VSEs and SMEs.
Frozen contributions for VSEs and SMEs in sectors hardest hit by the crisis
Following a meeting on December 7, 2020 between Economy and Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire and the insurers, an agreement has been reached that puts an end to the conflict between the two parties.
Insurers have pledged to freeze premiums on multi-risk professional policies, which will therefore not increase in 2021 for companies with fewer than 250 employees in the hotel and catering, sports, events, culture and tourism sectors.
In a press conference posted on Twitter, Bruno Le Maire described the agreement as "constructive", "effective" and "useful for the companies that have been hardest hit".
The Minister then returned to the 3 commitments made by the insurance companies. The first commitment is a freeze on premiums, plus two other measures: free assistance coverage and the creation of a mediation service for companies.
Free assistance coverage and mediation for businesses
Insurance companies have undertaken to offer VSEs and SMEs in these same sectors free assistance cover, for business owners and employees personally affected by Covid-19.
As Bruno Le Maire explains, this coverage consists of assistance "in the event of a psychological disorder or illness [...], a convalescence allowance of up to 3,000 euros, to ensure follow-up when you return from hospitalization", as well as "very practical things like home meal delivery when you can't cook for yourself, or childcare".
In addition, the insurers have announced the introduction ofa mediation service for businesses, along the lines of what already exists for private individuals, to deal with disputes. "In recent weeks and months, we've seen an increase in jurisdictional disputes, which are not good for anyone, neither for business owners, for whom it takes time, nor for the insurance companies themselves", insisted the Minister of the Economy and Finance, who advocated the importance of dialogue.
Finally, Bruno Le Maire confirmed that there would be no compulsory pandemic insurance, and welcomed the agreement as an opportunity "to move away from the logic of conflict towards a logic of dialogue, discussion and, above all, solidarity".