From preserving traditional trades to tackling the challenges of artificial intelligence and ecological transition, the Chambers of Arts & Crafts (CMA) are asserting their role as an economic pillar. In 2025, the network will celebrate a century of existence, proximity and innovation. An anniversary that aims to be a springboard for the future.
The Chambers of Arts & Crafts (CMA) are one of the essential pillars of the French economy. Present in every region, they embody the diversity, richness and vitality of French craftsmanship, with more than 300 trades represented, ranging from baking to leather goods and arts and crafts.
Their main mission is to support artisans at every stage of their professional lives: from setting up a business to handing it on, including the development and promotion of expertise.
The CMA Paris - Île-de-France plays a leading role in regional economic dynamics with support for more than 347,000 craft businesses in the Île-de-France region. In addition, the CMA network is the leading provider of work-study programmes in France, training more than 112,500 apprentices each year in 250 craft trades.
Created in 1925, the CMA network will celebrate its centenary in 2025. This major milestone highlights a century of expertise, proximity and commitment to serving craftspeople and apprenticeships. This is not just a symbolic anniversary! It is an opportunity for the CMA to reaffirm its historic role in defending the sector and to pay tribute to those who perpetuate traditional trades while innovating.
Over the decades, the CMA's missions have evolved, ranging from safeguarding professional interests to structuring apprenticeships. Today, the CMA Île-de-France is turning its attention to the challenges of tomorrow:
In a rapidly changing world, the CMA Paris and Île-de-France (IDF) network intends to continue its transformation to remain a trusted partner and a committed player in the field, working to ensure the vitality of the regions. For several years, the CMA Ile de France - Paris has been collaborating with Paris je t’aime to support the promotion of Parisian craftsmanship and local expertise to a wide audience.
To close out this year of celebration, don't miss the exhibition The Art of Making at the Petit Palais from 24 February to 1 March 2026. This exceptional event celebrates craftsmanship and contemporary creation through a unique dialogue between Parisian and Berlin artisans.
The heritage celebrated by the CMA is woven into the very fabric of the region. To embrace the rich heritage and atmosphere of the Paris region, venture off the beaten track!
Discover the many facets of the metropolis, from its historic neighbourhoods to the unexpected treasures of Greater Paris.
📍Discover the interactive map of Paris's century-old artisans :
To mark its 100th anniversary, the CMA has chosen to celebrate artisans whose expertise has been passed down through generations and embodies French excellence. The organisation launched an appeal to artisan businesses founded in 1925 or earlier, or also celebrating their centenary, to gather their testimonials and recount their stories.
This commemorative project culminated in an exceptional event organised by the CMA Île-de-France (IDF) - Paris and the City of Paris at the Hôtel de Ville. During this ceremony, 72 century-old Parisian craft businesses were honoured for their contribution to the richness and transmission of living heritage.
Whether they represent excellence in culinary expertise, arts and crafts or the service sector, their contribution to the richness of living heritage was celebrated. These century-old businesses are recognised as builders of Parisian craft history and pillars of the economic fabric and social cohesion of their neighbourhoods.
