The very first European Capitals of Small Retail (ECoSR) Awards Ceremony will take place on 28 January 2026 in Brussels, marking a milestone for cities championing small retail across Europe. This public event will bring together EU institutions representatives, local authorities, urban practitioners, retail experts, entrepreneurs, policymakers and stakeholders passionate about thriving small retail in towns and cities.

Following a rigorous first-stage evaluation by an independent expert panel, nine finalist cities have been shortlisted for the 2026 edition and will compete in the final stage before a European jury in Brussels. The finalists reflect diverse urban contexts and showcase strong commitment to supporting retail SMEs, fostering greener and more innovative urban environments, and strengthening community vitality.

The shortlisted cities are:

• Small-sized cities (“Vanguard Cities”): Makarska (Croatia), Silandro (Italy) and Silla (Spain).
• Medium-sized cities (“Vibrant Cities”): Braga (Portugal), Caldas da Rainha (Portugal) and Fuenlabrada (Spain).
• Large-sized cities (“Visionary Cities”): Barcelona (Spain), Utrecht (the Netherlands) and Zaragoza (Spain).

During the ceremony, finalist cities will pitch their proposed 2026 activity programmes to a European jury, presenting their visions, solutions and inspiring stories of how small retail shapes neighbourhoods, strengthens local identity and revitalises city centres. Three cities – one per category – will be awarded the title of European Capital of Small Retail 2026 and will begin their title year in February 2026.

Winning cities will benefit from a full year of non-financial support, including European-level recognition, promotional visibility, participation in the Small Retail Exchange Programme, networking opportunities, workshops, webinars and professional media production, contributing to strengthened city branding and tourism promotion.