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The geographical distribution of scientific activities in France is the subject of debate, between the proponents of increasing metropolitanization, and those of recent deconcentration. This article contributes to this debate by focusing on the human resources dimension of scientific activities, and by providing results concerning researchers in companies. Based on statistical data on French territory, it shows that the relative deconcentration of private scientific employment which took place at the end of the 20th century at the national level is in fact limited to a few regions slightly reducing the essential role of Ile-de-France. What is more, it ran out of steam at the start of the 21st century. More specifically, a study of the three regions benefiting from this devolution shows that the metropolises are reaping the bulk of the effects. Neither the movement of researchers in companies, nor the regional policies for financing company R&D appear to be able to counter this trend. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]