As of the third quarter of 2025, approximately 12.7 million French individuals were invested in the retirement savings plan (PER), highlighting a surge in interest for this financial product aimed at retirement preparation. The total amount saved in these plans has reached an impressive 141 billion euros, up 19% from the previous year, indicating the increasing financial commitment of the French. This robust growth is particularly noteworthy considering the PER was only introduced in 2019.

The growing apprehension among the French regarding their retirement security has played a significant role in the popularity of the PER. Many citizens are opting to build their savings earlier in life, which reflects a shift in attitude towards retirement planning. The product allows for more flexibility, encouraging individuals to take charge of their own financial futures while also addressing concerns over reliance on public pension systems.

The increasing divide in how different types of PERs are utilized is also notable. Both individual PERs, where savers make their own contributions, account for 82.4 billion euros, while company-sponsored plans (collective and mandatory) contribute significantly with a combined total of 58.8 billion euros. This trend underscores not only personal initiative but also the role employers play in fostering retirement savings, indicating a broader cultural shift towards financial responsibility and long-term planning in France.