Sharing platforms which offer services are not having an impact on traditional economic models. Mike Zenari (archives)

Sharing platforms which offer services are not having an impact on traditional economic models. Mike Zenari (archives)

Sharing platforms do not have the massive effect on the traditional economy that has been conjured up by enthusiasts and opponents alike. The new models have shaken up the established rules (between professional and amateur, in labour law, taxes, social protection and sector regulation), but their economic effect has been marginal.

86 out of 100 people would never use a sharing platform, and less than 4 out of 100 have offered their services, according to a Eurobarometer study from March 2016. Factors such as the low urbanisation or the lower need for additional income seem to inhibit growth.

On Wednesday 12 April, the thinktank said in a presentation that the sharing economy represents a tiny bit more than 0% of EU GDP.

Marc Wagener, director of Idea, has wondered whether Luxembourgers are ready for it during a press conference:

“It seems these new economic models take root mostly in urban areas, but Luxembourg is not Singapore and one of the most rural countries in Europe”.

The good economic situation also impedes the development of sharing platforms, as these tend to flourish in economic crises.

While the authorities believe in the model, especially in terms of mobility, these have not had the expected success. Habits, especially the habit of buying and owning stuff, are difficult to change--and these are very entrenched in Luxembourg.

Idea nevertheless suggested that the regulatory framework should be enlarged in order to forestall any future problems.

You can find the original article (in French) here.