The purpose of this study is to determine the causes of reduced competitiveness among French companies. Using a mixed methodology approach of qualitative and quantitative techniques, we surveyed 75 companies from different sectors. According to the analysis, the authors deduced that French SMEs' competitiveness has been declining due to both "price factors" and "non-price factors". The findings have also highlighted a lack of appropriate incentives offered to French SMEs to expand abroad, or to compete at a higher level -for those with a presence spanning borders.