News
30 January 2026
Silandro, Caldas da Rainha and Barcelona named 2026 European capitals of small retail
News
30 January 2026
Retail
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Today, Silandro/Schlanders in Italy, Caldas da Rainha, in Portugal, and Barcelona, in Spain, have been named as the 2026 European Capitals of Small Retail. The awards recognise small, medium, and large-sized cities that excel in supporting small retailers and vibrant city centres in four key areas: sustainability, entrepreneurship/community engagement, digitalisation, and urban vitality.
European Commission - DG GROW
Topics
Albania
Armenia
Austria
Belgium
Bosnia and Herzegovina
Bulgaria
Croatia
Cyprus
Czechia
Denmark
Estonia
EU-27
Finland
France
Georgia
Germany
Greece
Hungary
Iceland
Ireland
Italy
Kosovo
Latvia
Liechtenstein
Lithuania
Luxembourg
Malta
Moldova
Montenegro
Netherlands
North Macedonia
Norway
Poland
Portugal
Romania
Serbia
Slovakia
Slovenia
Spain
Sweden
Switzerland
Türkiye
Ukraine
Other
Academic / Research and VET Institutions
Business Support Organisation
Company with 250 or more employees
Cluster Organisations
Consumer Organisations
Cultural and Heritage Organisations
Destination Management & Marketing Organisations
EU Institutions
Financial Institutions and Investors
Industry Associations and Chambers of Commerce
International Organisations
Local Authorities
Media / Journalist Organisations
National authorities
Networks and Federations / Confederations
NGOs / Non-profits
Notified Bodies
Regional Authorities
SMEs (a company with less than 250 employees)
Social Economy Entity
Trade Unions
Other
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Ecosystem
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Retail
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The winners were chosen from among 28 cities across 13 countries that applied for the award. They impressed the European jury with their ambitious programmes for 2026 and strong potential to serve as role models in creating a vibrant and supportive environment for small retailers. All nine cities chosen as finalists will participate in an exchange programme that will connect local authorities, businesses, and small retailers to stimulate innovation and collaboration.
The initiative was proposed by the European Parliament, following citizens’ petition and It is implemented by the European Commission (DG GROW and EISMEA).
The European Capitals of Small Retail initiative will continue with a new edition launching soon. Information on the next call for applications, eligibility, and timeline will be published in the coming months, so stay tuned for European Capitals of Small Retail Awards 2027!
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