Economists have predicted European societies will consume less , with several recent surveys showing that sales of some products , such as magazines and newspapers , have fallen in France . Around 77 % of French consumers surveyed said what matters is not buying something , but having access to it , while 62 % bought second - hand clothing . Further , 15 % said they want to consume " the same amount , but better " and 27 % said " less , but better " . Qu’ils émanent du Centre de recherche pour l’étude et l’observation des conditions de vie (Crédoc) ou de l’Observatoire société et consommation (Obsoco), ces chiffres témoignent que les Français, globalement, achètent de moins en moins de biens matériels. Over 50 % use a subscription service , as physical purchases are replaced by on - demand services . The figures suggest mass consumption has yet to fall , but a pre - decline peak is expected .
Economists have predicted European societies will consume less , with several recent surveys showing that sales of some products , such as magazines and newspapers , have fallen in France . Around 77 % of French consumers surveyed said what matters is not buying something , but having access to it , while 62 % bought second - hand clothing . Further , 15 % said they want to consume " the same amount , but better " and 27 % said " less , but better " . Over 50 % use a subscription service , as physical purchases are replaced by on - demand services . The figures suggest mass consumption has yet to fall , but a pre - decline peak is expected .