Can I avoid visiting the French consulate when applying for a Schengen visa?

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As I read it, the requirement just means you need to have been previously issued a Schengen visa labeled "VIS," which demonstrates that your biometrics are already in the system (that's the Visa Information System, which Schengen states use to share visa data and biometrics), whether or not that visa is used or expired. Since you gave biometrics for your last visa already, you wouldn't need to appear in person.

One source says:

An applicant requesting a visa for the first time must appear in person for the collection of his or her biometric data: a photograph and ten fingerprints. However, for subsequent applications within five years, fingerprints from the VIS file can be re-used unless there is reasonable doubt regarding the applicant's identity.

You can usually email the consulate to confirm too if there's any doubt. I presume they would contact you if they deemed a personal appearance necessary.

Note that every Schengen country has been rolling out their systems on different timetables, so the exact rules that will apply to applicants may depend on the consulate responsible for your application.

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