Bari bids for European Capital of Small Retail 2027

The Italian city of Bari has officially nominated itself for the European Capital of Small Retail 2027 award, a European Commission programme that recognises cities that develop innovative policies to promote proximity commerce. The candidacy was presented on 18 May in the Palazzo della Città, with mayor Vito Leccese, local development assessor Pietro Petruzzelli and regional economic development assessor Eugenio Di Sciascio in attendance.

Bari’s bid highlights a series of initiatives aimed at revitalising local shops and neighbourhoods, including programmes such as “Un negozio non è solo un negozio”, “Impresa Prossima”, “Bari Artigiana”, “Scuola Barese del Commercio” and “Strade Vive”. The city argues that these measures strengthen urban growth, social inclusion and the vitality of its quarters, countering challenges from online retail and ongoing construction in key commercial zones.

If selected, Bari would join a network of European cities recognised for fostering small‑scale retail as a driver of economic and social cohesion.