The award
The winners of the first edition of the European Capitals of Small Retail (ECoSR) competition will be announced in Brussels in January 2026, with a call for applications opening in July 2025. Three cities will be selected to hold the title of the European Capital of Small Retail 2026, representing different population categories
- Vanguard City: for cities between 5 000 and 50 000 inhabitants
- Vibrant City: for cities between 50 000 and 250 000 inhabitants
- Visionary City: for cities above 250 000 inhabitants
The title year begins in February 2026 and marks a 12-month period of enhanced visibility, learning opportunities, and collaborative exchange.
Benefits for winning cities
Winning cities receive a comprehensive package of non-financial support
- European-level recognition and prestige
- promotional support throughout the title year
- invitations to exclusive networking events with other leading cities
- participation in the small retail exchange programme to share and learn best practices
- assistance with organising workshops and webinars
- extensive media coverage, including professional video production
- enhanced city branding and tourism visibility
