Marseille Unveils "Made in Marseille" Label to Protect Local Products
Marseille, France – In a move to safeguard the authenticity of products hailing from the vibrant city of Marseille, the municipality has launched a new certification label: "Fabriqué à Marseille" (Made in Marseille). Scheduled for a mid-March unveiling, this label will serve as a guarantee that products bearing it are genuinely manufactured within the city limits.
The creation of the label stems from the persistent issue surrounding the misuse of the "Savon de Marseille" (Marseille Soap) designation. Multinational corporations, artisans from Morocco and Greece, among others, have been known to label their products as "Savon de Marseille" despite not adhering to the traditional production methods, composition, or geographical origin.
"This label will enable us to differentiate ourselves while also highlighting industrial tourism," explains Raphaël Seghin, president of the Fer à Cheval soap factory. "The 3,500 visitors who came to the soap factory last year realized that the quality of the ingredients and the expertise explain the price difference."
Guillaume Fievet of the Savonnerie du Midi, who presented to the commission established by the municipality with a precise cahier des charges (specifications), expresses regret that the Protected Geographical Indication (IGP) has yet to be granted, despite the application being submitted to the INPI (National Institute of Industrial Property) a decade ago.
Another peculiar case is that of olive oil. Marseille, with its 5,000 olive trees, produces its own oil at the Moulin de Florette in the northern districts. "The 2024 harvest has aromas of kiwi, artichoke, and green fruit, with a nice persistence," analyzes Emmanuel Perrodin, a renowned chef who tasted the oil blind. He acknowledges that attaining a specific AOP would have been challenging, and labeling it with an "AOP Aix-en-Provence" designation was unacceptable to the people of Marseille.
Economic and Cultural Benefits
The "Fabriqué à Marseille" label is not merely a mark of authenticity but also a strategic tool for economic development. It aims to attract investors, support local businesses, and boost tourism.
"This label is a great opportunity for us," affirms Jean-Luc Chauvin, president of the Chambre de Commerce et d’Industrie Marseille-Provence (Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Marseille-Provence). "It will allow our companies to differentiate themselves and enhance the visibility of our city’s products."
The label also aligns with Marseille’s goal of promoting sustainable and ethical production practices. By ensuring that products are manufactured locally, the municipality hopes to reduce the carbon footprint associated with transportation and promote a circular economy.
Preserving the Heritage of Marseille
Beyond its economic benefits, the label holds cultural significance. It represents the city’s rich industrial history and the passion of its artisans. By safeguarding traditional production methods and protecting local products, the label contributes to the preservation of Marseille’s identity.
"Marseille is a city of industry and innovation," emphasizes Benoît Payan, mayor of Marseille. "With this label, we want to pay homage to our craftsmen and the quality of our products."
The "Fabriqué à Marseille" label is a powerful symbol of Marseille’s pride in its local products and its commitment to preserving its heritage. As the label becomes more widely recognized, consumers can rest assured that they are purchasing authentic and high-quality goods, while supporting the economic and cultural vitality of the city.
