European Capitals of Small Retail 2026: shortlisted cities revealed

Brussels, 28 November 2025, Following the launch of the first European Capitals of Small Retail (ECoSR) competition in July, the European Commission announced the nine finalist cities that will compete in the final stage of the competition for 2026 European Capital of Small Retail title. This new EU initiative recognises small, medium and large-sized cities that excel in supporting small retailers, revitalising city centres, and fostering entrepreneurship, sustainability and innovation.

Nine Finalists

Following the evaluation stage carried out by a panel of experts across four key areas: sustainability, entrepreneurship and community engagement, digitalisation, and urban vitality the nine finalists ​ in each of the three categories are (in alphabetical order):

VANGUARD CITIES (small-sized cities with 5 000 - 50 000 inhabitants):

Makarska, Croatia – Its small business-driven retail scene spans the beachfront, old town, and city centre. Revitalisation programmes and cultural events support sustainability and address overtourism and seasonality. 

Silandro, Italy – The city combines a pedestrian historic centre with strong independent retail and market-town traditions. Local alliances and cultural initiatives promote innovation, solidarity, and slow tourism. 

Silla, Spain – Silla has a strong small retail network supported by its regional connectivity and local identity. Modernisation, sustainability, and digitalisation programmes reinforce competitiveness and renewal. 

VIBRANT CITIES (medium-sized cities with 50 000 - 250 000 inhabitants):

Braga, Portugal – Its historic centre and strong base of small shops support a steadily growing retail sector. Digital districts, pedestrian areas, and cultural events boost innovation and urban vitality. 

Caldas da Rainha, Portugal – Its historic centre and resilient small retail sector shape community life and local identity. Cultural initiatives, digital programmes, and sustainable mobility strengthen its long-term vitality. 

Fuenlabrada, Spain – Fuenlabrada blends a historic centre with active neighbourhood retail, supported by many small establishments. Municipal and community initiatives drive digitalisation, sustainability, and renewal. 

VISIONARY CITIES (large cities with more than 250 000 inhabitants):

Barcelona, Spain – The city builds its identity around retail, linking economic vitality with neighbourhood life and social cohesion. Its Strategic Retail Plan drives digitalisation, sustainability, and strong public-private collaboration. 

Utrecht, The Netherlands – Utrecht mixes historic charm with a lively SME driven retail scene that reinforces local identity. Clear policies and community partnerships support innovation, digitalisation, and urban vitality. 

Zaragoza, Spain – The city combines historic streets with new districts and thriving centres within a dense retail network. Its urban upgrades and support for small shops ensure long-term adaptability and growth.

Next steps: Awards Ceremony and benefits

All finalist cities will present their candidatures in front of a European Jury and three winning cities (one per category) will be selected and announced at the "European Capital of Small Retail 2026 Awards” event, on 28 January 2026 in Brussels. They will receive EU-wide recognition as the “European Capitals of Small Retail 2026”, access to the Small Retail Exchange Programme between shortlisted cities and a tailored promotional package, including a professional video, launch event and EU-wide media visibility throughout 2026.

Background and contact:

The European Capitals of Small Retail (ECoSR) is a European Union initiative, initiated by the European Parliament and implemented by the European Commission, aimed at recognising cities that have demonstrated exceptional support for small retailers and vibrant city centres. Small retailers are vital to local economies, creating vibrant neighbourhoods, preserving cultural identity, and building economic resilience through their close links with local businesses and consumers.

For more information, visit the ECoSR official website or contact us at info@eusmallretailcapitals.eu; press inquiries media@eusmallretailcapitals.eu.