Closure of the Cer Jo driving school in Bagnols-sur-Cèze: a page turns after 36 years of activity

Christine, la gérante de l'auto-école Cer Jo est contrainte de fermer son établissement ouvert depuis 36 ans. MIDI LIBRE – ARTHUR JOAQUIM

L'auto-école bagnolaise Cer Jo a définitivement fermé ses portes mardi 13 février. L'entreprise a été placée en liquidation judiciaire. 

After 36 years of existence, Cer Jo  is forced to cease its activity. Present in this family business for 30 years, the manager, Christine Manchon-Merlette, emphasizes that “this decision affects me enormously. But between the current situation, and my health, we can no longer continue like this".  After a family bereavement and health problems, the director of the establishment fought a lot. Many fights that require time and energy: "During these periods, fortunately I was able to count on my team, but today' #39;Today I am tired of fighting. We let go a little, and that's what brings us here today."

In 2022, the driving school had around 380 registrations, compared to 322 in 2023. A drop in activity which occurred from the Covid period. But beyond the numbers, it was above all morally that it became complicated: "I wouldn't have lasted any longer. Covid accelerated my decision. I still have 12 years before retirement, I didn't see myself going that far. I have plans."

Will customers be refunded ?

"We have had people come and tell us that we hadn't warned them. But the decision fell on Thursday (February 8), we cannot warn everyone at the same time" defends the boss. Rest assured, the company has had insurance since its creation:  "Customers need to come back to us so that we can explain the procedure to them and have access to this guarantee. They will be refunded for everything they paid and didn't do  she specifies.  

"Stay Worthy"

The administrative closure of the establishment will not prevent the 52-year-old director from remaining physically present in her premises for a while longer: &quot ;I'm closing, it's a legal decision, but I'm staying in the office, so as not to let anyone down. I want to remain worthy."

A page turns. The city loses an institution, which,  for 36 years has worked to teach good road driving to no less than 180,000 people since 1988. Christine Manchon-Merlette finishes, full of emotion: "I would like to thank all our customers who have placed their trust in us over these 36 years."

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