2,000 euros in monthly charges: the ordeal of a Norman bar-tabac manager, closed for two years after a fire

A financial nightmare. Two years ago, Frédéric Martin saw his bar-tabac in Bihorel , near Rouen (Seine-Maritime), completely destroyed by a fire that broke out during the June 2023 riots following Nahel's death in Nanterre. At the time, BFM Normandie met with the manager , who had run "Le Kennedy" for 12 years.

"Everything is falling apart!" he cried, completely devastated by a situation that was beyond his control. As a father of two disabled children, this fire was a devastating blow for Frédéric.

But since then, the manager has never been able to reopen his business, and the work remains unfinished. However, he continues to pay the bar-tabac's expenses: €2,000 per month.

Today, Frédéric is at his wit's end. While his insurance company is supporting him, the two years without income are starting to take their toll.

"The money I was given to redo the work ultimately went towards paying the bills and rent for two years," he told BFMTV.

Indeed, the work to rehabilitate "Le Kennedy" is progressing at a snail's pace and is still not finished. Long months of waiting are necessary between each stage of the reconstruction.

"That's 2,000 euros going out every month for a business that no longer exists," laments the Norman.

The shopkeeper is supported by Sylvie, his former partner. She is helping him with every step he takes to speed up the bar's reopening. "Since June 29, 2023, I feel like I'm facing a tsunami in Thailand. I've paused the wave, and I don't know when it will end."

But she, too, is gradually finding herself with her back against the wall. "I've exhausted all options. This month, all the bills will be paid, the bar rent and Frédéric's personal expenses, but next month, if nothing happens, he'll lose everything," Sylvie confides.

An online fundraiser has been set up to financially support Frédéric. The money raised will allow him to purchase new equipment and recoup his lost revenue. The manager hopes to complete the work this summer.