EU and Greek business registration and bankruptcy trends

Economic data from the second quarter of 2026 reveals a complex landscape for business activity in the European Union and Greece. Across the EU, new business registrations fell by 0.5%, while corporate bankruptcies rose by 5.7%, marking the highest levels since early 2019. While the information and communication sectors grew, the industrial sector saw a 3.6% decline in new registrations. Significant bankruptcy increases were noted in education and social activities, transport, and financial services.

In Greece, the trend shows more divergence. New business registrations increased by 1% compared to the same period in 2025, totaling 35,495. The highest growth was observed in transport and storage (17%) and construction (13.8%). However, business bankruptcies in Greece experienced a sharp rise of 43.7%, reaching 171 cases compared to 119 in the same period of 2025.

Further complicating the Greek economic outlook, a survey by the Hellenic Confederation of Commerce and Entrepreneurship indicates a downturn in the retail sector. During the 2026 summer sales period, approximately 57.5% of retail businesses reported lower turnover compared to the previous year, while only 10% reported an increase. Business owners identified high inflation, rising operating costs, and reduced disposable income as the primary challenges. In response to declining sales, nearly 40% of retailers planned to extend discount offers beyond the official sales period.