Sporting goods stores in northern French coastal towns have become key points in the supply chain for migrant smuggling operations, with thousands of individuals purchasing lifejackets for perilous journeys across the English Channel to the UK. The stores, primarily Decathlon branches in Calais and Dunkirk, are selling essential safety equipment that critics argue facilitates illegal migration and profits from migrants' desperation.
Migrants fleeing violence and persecution often gather in large camps along the 120-mile stretch of French coast between Dunkirk and Dieppe. Facing uncertain waits for passage to Britain, many are preparing for the journey at a moment's notice. Reports indicate that these migrants frequently travel by bus to retail parks housing Decathlon stores to purchase supplies, including lifejackets.
Observers have witnessed migrants buying multiple lifejackets, often stowing them in bin bags, for prices starting around €17.99. Some purchased basic foam vests, while others opted for more sophisticated gas-powered models priced up to €89.99. These purchases are reportedly made without including the cost of the crossing itself, suggesting migrants must procure their own safety equipment.
One branch in Dunkirk is located near migrant camps in the Grande-Synthe and Loon-Plage areas. Migrants have been seen travelling from these camps to the Decathlon store, sometimes purchasing food like baguettes and then proceeding to buy buoyancy aids. Outside the store, individuals have been observed with numerous lifejackets packed into bags, with some confirming they intended to use them for a boat crossing to the UK.
While Decathlon has previously stated they do not sell lifejackets in bulk and stopped selling inflatable boats in the region in 2021 due to misuse, their stores continue to stock buoyancy aids and other safety equipment. The company stated that products improving sea safety, such as lifejackets and oars, would still be sold. On a recent visit, oars were not observed, but two-man inflatable kayaks were available at a Decathlon in Calais, a policy that appeared to contradict the company's stance on inflatable boats.
The lifejackets sold are part of a wider international supply chain originating in China. The vests undergo safety assessments by certification firms in France, Denmark, and Germany to meet EU standards, with some also certified under UK schemes. This global process ensures the products are available for sale across multiple markets before reaching the hands of migrants in northern France.
Local officials have expressed strong criticism. Natacha Bouchart, the mayor of Calais, stated that while lifejackets save lives, their sale fuels criminal organizations and leads people to their deaths. Guy Allemand, mayor of Sangatte, called the sales "disgraceful." Shadow home secretary Chris Philp has also criticized the practice, suggesting it facilitates illegal migration and that French authorities should prosecute the company.
However, migrant aid organizations argue that removing lifejackets from shelves will not deter migrants. They contend that individuals at the end of their migration journey will still attempt to reach family in England or flee oppressive regimes.
Recent figures indicate a significant number of migrant arrivals in the UK via small boat crossings. In one instance, an overcrowded dinghy carrying 173 migrants caught fire in the Channel, forcing passengers into the sea, though no fatalities were reported. Despite these dangers, the flow of migrants attempting the crossing continues, with lifejackets remaining a critical, albeit basic, piece of equipment for those undertaking the journey.