The project explores how small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the retail sector - key pillars of local communities across Europe - are navigating the challenges and opportunities of the digital and green transitions. By building a robust evidence base, identifying best policy practices, and facilitating peer learning through knowledge-sharing events, this OECD/EC initiative supports policy makers and stakeholders across the European Union in fostering a thriving retail ecosystem and revitalising town and city centres.
Our mission is to help policy makers, SMEs, and local communities across the EU:
The project will deliver:
Past Events:
Upcoming Events:
Stay tuned for registration details and future updates.
This initiative is a collaboration between the OECD Centre for Entrepreneurship, SMEs, Regions, and Cities (CFE), leading research and analysis, and the European Commission Directorate-General for Internal Market, Industry, Entrepreneurship and SMEs (DG GROW), providing strategic support, funding, and policy guidance to align the project with the EU’s objectives for a resilient, digital, and green retail ecosystem.
The project also contributes to the Programme of work of several OECD Committees and Working Parties, including the Committee on SMEs and Entrepreneurship (CSMEE), the Local Employment and Economic Development (LEED) Committee, and the Working Party on Urban Policy (WPURB) under the Regional Development Policy Committee (RDPC).
The community of stakeholders and international experts that this project is building also connects with other relevant OECD initiatives: D4SME Global Initiative, the Local Development Forum, and the OECD Champion Mayors for Inclusive Growth.
To learn more, participate in upcoming events, or share relevant insights and best practices, please contact Marco Bianchini (Marco.Bianchini@oecd.org)
