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German city centers regain consumer attractiveness, survey shows
A survey conducted by Cima on behalf of the German Retail Association (HDE) indicates that German city centers are regaining attractiveness for consumers. According to the study, more than 80 percent of respondents intend to visit their city centers as often or even more frequently than they have in the past. This represents an increase of approximately 20 percentage points compared to a 2024 survey.
Conversely, the proportion of people planning to visit city centers less often or not at all has dropped from roughly 35 percent in 2024 to nearly 17 percent. Study author Roland Wölfel suggests that recent investments and development programs are beginning to yield positive results. Shopping remains the primary driver for city center visits, followed by dining at restaurants and cafes.
Despite the positive trend, the HDE warned of ongoing challenges, including rising vacancies and vandalism, which contribute to public insecurity. The association is calling for political incentives and the deployment of settlement managers to revitalize vacant storefronts. Additionally, consumers expressed a desire for more diverse urban services, such as improved healthcare and expanded recreational opportunities for children and youth.
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- [● 3 SOURCES] A survey conducted by Cima on behalf of the German Retail Association (HDE) shows German city centers are regaining attractiveness. www.kurierverlag.de · www.onetz.de · www.upday.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] More than 80 percent of respondents intend to visit city centers as often or more frequently than before. www.kurierverlag.de · www.onetz.de · www.upday.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] Study author Roland Wölfel stated that recent initiatives, investments, and development programs are showing positive effects. www.kurierverlag.de · www.onetz.de · www.upday.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] The HDE warned that increasing vacancies and vandalism are contributing to feelings of insecurity among citizens. www.kurierverlag.de · www.onetz.de · www.upday.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] The HDE is calling for political incentives and the use of settlement managers to revitalize vacant commercial spaces. www.kurierverlag.de · www.onetz.de · www.upday.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] Shopping remains the primary reason for visiting city centers, followed by visits to restaurants and cafes. www.kurierverlag.de · www.onetz.de · www.upday.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] The proportion of people intending to visit city centers less often or not at all fell from approximately 35 percent in 2024 to nearly 17 percent. www.kurierverlag.de · www.onetz.de · www.upday.com
- [● 2 SOURCES] Consumers expressed a desire for more diverse offerings, including better healthcare and more activities for children and youth. www.onetz.de · www.upday.com