In 2026, Barcelona was named European Capital of Small Retail by the European Union, recognising the city as a leading model in supporting local commerce, innovation in the retail sector and the role of small businesses in urban life. Small retail represents 13.2% of the city’s GDP, provides more than 150 000 jobs, and maintains a very high level of active commercial premises, showing the strength and resilience of Barcelona’s retail network. Local shops are present in all neighbourhoods and play a key role in social cohesion, inclusion and everyday urban life by keeping streets active and serving as community meeting points.
This recognition is the result of a shared governance model based on strong cooperation between the city authorities, retail hubs, markets, trade associations, and professional organisations, supported by long-standind public-private partnerships. Barcelona has developed a broad strategy to modernise small retail through more than forty initiatives focused on sustainability, digital transformation, mobility, entrepreneurship and the reactivation of ground-floor premises. These include environmental programmes for waste reduction, renewable energy use in markets, sustainable logistics, support for business creation and generational renewal, digital training for shopkeepers, and the promotion of omnichannel retail models.
In addition, the city strengthens the attractiveness of its retail sector through major public events, educational programmes, awards for innovation and quality, and strong links between commerce and major urban events. Through the European Capital of Small Retail title, Barcelona aims to create a long-term, structural legacy that benefits both the city and Europe, positioning its local retail model as a transferable reference for other European cities seeking to revitalise their city centers and neighbourhood economies.
