Italian cities roll out programmes to revive neighbourhood shops

In Bologna, Confesercenti organised a public signing event for a popular‑initiative bill titled “Measures for the urban regeneration of commerce and proximity services”. The association aims to collect 50,000 signatures by 25 October 2026 to push legislation that would support small retailers, artisans and public‑service venues through measures such as reduced taxes, lower rents and special economic zones. President Massimo Zucchini warned that Emilia‑Romagna has lost about 5,900 neighbourhood shops in the past decade, leaving millions of residents without essential services.

In Livorno, the first “Shopping sotto le stelle” festival was held on 17 July 2026, coordinated by Confcommercio Livorno together with the municipality, the Chamber of Commerce and the Gruppo Scotti. Evening openings of shops, live music and street entertainment attracted many visitors, with organisers noting strong community interest and the intention to make the event a regular fixture to boost the city centre’s attractiveness.

Both initiatives reflect a broader push in Italy to strengthen local retail and prevent commercial desertification in urban and smaller community areas.