Local retail is currently facing one of the most important challenges to its continuity: generational succession. This workshop will address how cities, institutions, and players in the retail ecosystem can help facilitate business transfers, promote entrepreneurship, and attract new professionals to the sector.
The session will draw on Barcelona’s experience as European Capital of Local Retail 2026, a laboratory for innovation and collaboration that has highlighted the role of local retail as an economic, social, and urban driver. Through case studies and real-life experiences, it will examine initiatives aimed at facilitating business succession, supporting new entrepreneurs, and strengthening the skills needed to adapt to economic and technological change.
Participants will share their thoughts on the factors that support the continuity of retail businesses, the opportunities offered by business transfer programs, and strategies to inspire interest in retail careers among younger generations. The session will also focus on the importance of training, digitalization, and institutional support in ensuring the sector’s competitiveness.
This discussion aims to offer tools and inspiration for both policymakers and representatives of retail and entrepreneurship, helping to build a more resilient, innovative, and future-ready local retail model.
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