Telephone Sales: What Regulations Apply to Professionals in France?
Published on economie.gouv.fr, November 26, 2024
Introduction
Telephone sales are a common practice used by businesses to reach potential customers and generate leads. However, there are specific regulations that businesses must comply with when engaging in telephone sales in France. This article provides an overview of the key regulations that apply to professionals engaged in telephone sales.
Do Not Call List (Bloctel)
The Bloctel list is a national registry that allows individuals to opt out of receiving unsolicited commercial calls. Businesses are prohibited from calling individuals who have registered their numbers on the Bloctel list. Professionals must check the Bloctel list before making any outbound calls.
Call Identification
Businesses must clearly identify themselves when making outbound calls. This includes providing the company name, contact information, and the purpose of the call. Failure to properly identify the business may result in fines or other penalties.
Call Times
There are restrictions on the times when businesses can make outbound calls. In general, businesses can only make calls between 8:00 AM and 8:00 PM, Monday through Saturday. Calls are prohibited on Sundays and public holidays.
Call Duration
Calls made by professionals must be limited to a reasonable duration. While there is no specific time limit, businesses should be mindful of the recipient’s time and avoid making excessively long calls.
Automatic Call Systems
Automatic call systems (such as robocalls) are generally prohibited in France. Exceptions may be made for calls that are purely informational or that provide customer service. Professionals should carefully consider the use of automatic call systems and ensure that they comply with the applicable regulations.
Consent
In certain cases, businesses may require the consent of the recipient before making outbound calls. This is typically the case for calls that involve the sale of a product or service. Professionals should obtain consent in writing or through a clear and unambiguous verbal confirmation.
Enforcement
Violations of telephone sales regulations can result in fines of up to €15,000 for individuals and €75,000 for businesses. The French government actively enforces these regulations, and businesses should take steps to ensure compliance.
Conclusion
Businesses engaged in telephone sales in France must comply with specific regulations to protect consumer rights and prevent unsolicited calls. By following these regulations, professionals can avoid penalties and maintain a positive reputation among potential customers.
Démarchage téléphonique : quelles règles s’appliquent aux professionnels ?
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