Jean-Alexandre Trogneux, the former leader of the Jean Trogneux chocolate and confectionery business in Amiens, says the nine years of Emmanuel Macron’s presidency have tarnished
his family’s name. Speaking on the podcast À contre-jour, the 65-year-old nephew of Brigitte Macron detailed the personal and professional toll of their proximity to power.
Trogneux described a shift in public perception that began in 2017 when Emmanuel Macron first took office. He noted that while the public was initially curious and respectful, the mood quickly shifted toward criticism, jealousy, and in some cases, hatred.
Collateral Damage and Business Loss
The family faced a significant turning point in 2018 during the Gilets Jaunes movement. During this period, the Trogneux shops were vandalized, and both Jean-Alexandre and his son, Jean-Baptiste, received threatening letters and excrement in their mailboxes.
The political climate also impacted the company’s bottom line. The confectionery lost corporate orders given that unionists did not want to please the president
, despite Jean-Alexandre’s insistence that there was no financial interest between his family and the Macrons.
Violence and Displacement
The animosity culminated on May 15, 2023, when Jean-Baptiste Trogneux, the current head of the business, was beaten by five individuals near the chocolate shop. Jean-Alexandre recalled that his son was saved by a courageous neighbor, stating the attack was intended to break Macron
.
The ongoing pressure led to significant family displacements. Jean-Alexandre moved to Le Touquet in Pas-de-Calais, while his daughter moved abroad and refuses to return until the situation becomes clearer.
Looking Toward 2027
Jean-Alexandre Trogneux views the upcoming 2027 presidential election as a pivotal moment. He believes that Emmanuel Macron’s departure from the Élysée will signal the end of the hassles
for his family.
Depending on the outcome of the election, the family may see a reduction in the public hostility and conspiracy theories that have characterized the last nine years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Jean-Alexandre Trogneux?
He is a 65-year-old former leader of the Jean Trogneux chocolate and confectionery business in Amiens and the nephew of Brigitte Macron.
What happened to Jean-Baptiste Trogneux in 2023?
On May 15, 2023, Jean-Baptiste was attacked and beaten by five individuals near his chocolate shop, an act his father described as an attempt to attack the president by proxy.
How did the Gilets Jaunes movement affect the family business?
In 2018, the movement led to the vandalism of Trogneux shops, threatening mail, and the loss of corporate orders from unionists who did not want to provide business to those linked to the president.
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