Record prices for Charentais melons as the season's limited supply meets demand, leading to a significant increase in cost. This situation is partly due to high production costs and harsh weather conditions, but mainly to a global decrease in melon cultivation areas, which has resulted in a widening trade deficit. The high demand and the melon's status as a loss leader, often sold at a loss during promotions, have led to financial struggles for producers, contributing to the abandonment of melon cultivation. Many French producers have shifted production to Spain and Morocco to meet domestic demand.