The presence of shops is an integral part of every region across member states in the EU. Join our discussion checking the health of the many different types of retail and wholesale SMEs in towns and cities. In an environment of global competition from online players, challenges to their competitiveness, and the changing face of shopping streets, find out what the Commission has on the horizon that will support those retail and wholesale SMEs. Hear from experts on what challenges need to be overcome to get retail and wholesale SMEs back into optimal health. 

Moderator: Leena Whittaker, Director Competitiveness, EuroCommerce

Speakers:

• Kristin Schreiber, Director, Chemicals, Bioeconomy & Retail, European Commission DG GROW
• Patricia Hoogstraaten, Director General, Vakcentrum, Chair of the EuroCommerce SME Interest Group.
• Else Groen, Director General, Independent Retail Europe
• Tim Lagerpusch, founder and former CEO of Sugartrends.

The event is taking place during the SME Assembly, but will be recorded for viewing through the platform: SME Assembly | Futurium