European city centers are seeing their local and artisan shops disappear at a rapid pace. The diversity of shops is declining not only in popular tourist cities, but in all cities surveyed. This is evident from European research by Sweco.
In this study, a European benchmark was conducted for the first time into the role of tourism in the monoculturalization of local retail.
Debate on mass tourism in a broader context
The publication comes at a time when the public debate on mass tourism and liveability is raging in cities like Amsterdam. Actions and campaigns demonstrate the extent of concerns regarding the pressure on inner cities. The Sweco study places this discussion in a broader European context and shows that similar tensions are at play in many cities, albeit in different forms and with different causes.
Tourism as an accelerator, not the sole cause
The research shows that tourism is rarely the sole cause of a one-sided retail offering, but often acts as an accelerator. In some cities, this leads to streets that are almost entirely geared towards visitors, with souvenir shops and fast-food outlets, at the expense of amenities for residents.
"The public discontent we are seeing now is very understandable," says Douwe Stoer, leisure consultant at Sweco. "But our research shows that the problem is more complex than is often thought. Tourism is rarely the sole cause, but it can be the tipping point at which local functions disappear."
Monoculture limited to a few streets, but regulations are restrictive.
It is striking that the monoculture is usually limited to a few streets in the city center. This offers opportunities for targeted measures, but according to many cities, these are limited by European regulations. The EU Services Directive, in particular, gives municipalities little room to actively steer the type of shops that establish themselves.
"Cities want to keep their centers livable for residents, but sometimes lack the legal instruments to actually do so. However, our research shows that more is possible within existing regulations than is often thought, provided that policy is implemented in an area-specific, consistent, and long-term manner," says Ingrid Ploegmakers, Leading Expert Shopping & Leisure at Sweco.
Cities are seeking creative solutions
The research shows that cities are turning to a mix of measures: subsidies, operating permits, mediation between property owners and entrepreneurs, and active city centre management. In addition, more strategic instruments are being deployed. For instance, UNESCO World Heritage status in cities like Florence offers additional leverage for steering, while Amsterdam is experimenting with the strategic acquisition of real estate to maintain control over the retail offering.
Call for a broader debate at both local and European levels
According to the authors, the research underscores the need for a broader discussion at both local and European levels. Without additional policy space, many cities risk further losing their local identity and liveability. Targeted, area-specific measures, supported by a more appropriate European framework, are crucial to keeping city centers resilient for both residents and visitors.
More information: sweco.nl/onderzoek-toerisme-lokale-winkels