Barcelona to become European Capital of Local Retail in 2026

Brussels, January 28, 2026. – Barcelona Comerç has welcomed the selection of Barcelona as the 2026 European Capital of Local Retail, a distinction that highlights the role of urban commerce as an economic and social driver, as well as its function in fostering neighborhood cohesion. This designation positions Barcelona as a European benchmark for supporting small businesses and promoting a commercial model rooted in the local community.

According to Pròsper Puig, president of Barcelona Comerç, following the European jury's decision in Brussels, this title will increase the visibility of local retail and strengthen its influence both institutionally and among citizens. Puig noted that the project was spearheaded by the organization since its inception and that its realization represents a significant step forward for the entire sector.

Barcelona surpassed fellow finalists Utrecht (Netherlands) and Zaragoza (Spain).

Recognition of Barcelona’s Leadership in Urban Retail

Puig emphasized that Barcelona’s designation in the inaugural edition of this award validates the ongoing work and leadership of the city’s commercial sector. He also highlighted that the result justifies the efforts Barcelona Comerç has led since 2019 in various European and international forums to champion the creation of this Capital status—an initiative driven by the organization—to protect and project local retail as sustainable, innovative, and deeply connected to urban life.

Calendar and Categories

With the dates now set, Barcelona will hold the title of European Capital of Local Retail in the "Visionary Cities" category (for cities with over 250,000 inhabitants) until January 2027.

Alongside Barcelona, Caldas da Rainha (Portugal) was recognized in the "Vibrant Cities" category (50,000 to 250,000 inhabitants), and Silandro (Italy) in the "Avant-garde Cities" category (5,000 to 50,000 inhabitants).

Commitment to Impactful Collaboration

Barcelona Comerç reiterated its commitment to collaborating with all stakeholders to achieve the goals defined in the bid, leveraging this designation to boost initiatives with a lasting positive impact on the commercial fabric and the public.

About the European Capital of Local Retail

The European Capital of Local Retail originated from a project launched in 2019 by Barcelona Comerç and Vitrines d’Europe. Aiming to place local retail at the heart of European urban policy, both entities presented a formal proposal to the European Parliament in 2022. The initiative was approved by Parliament and subsequently ratified, co-funded, and implemented by the European Commission.

About the Winning Bid

The bid was submitted jointly by the Barcelona City Council and the city’s leading sector organizations, including Barcelona Comerç, Barcelona Oberta, Foment Comerç, and others, with broad support from the Metropolitan Area of Barcelona (AMB), the Barcelona Provincial Council, and the Generalitat de Catalunya. The proposal showcases best practices that demonstrate the strength and replicability of Barcelona’s commercial model on a European scale.