In the eyes of some 3,100 consumers surveyed, the demand for better diversity of offer represents the main concern (72%). It is ahead of the need for sufficient parking (49%) and the desire for more activities and events (30%).
The local level of power is close to citizens but also to traders, and can therefore take initiatives with a rapid impact, consider Comeos and the UCM. “Shopping should be an experience, and local authorities play a key role. Ensuring a diversity of large and small brands, avoiding the frustrations of traffic and parking, taking initiatives to create atmosphere and ensure clear and attractive communication for both consumers and merchants. A city where shopping is good, which is accessible and which offers a rich variety of products, is a prosperous city,” say the organizations.
They emphasize that good local policy is essential to make city centers attractive.
Six out of ten respondents still prefer to shop in-store, while 36% opt for a combination of online and in-store shopping. Only 4% favor online purchases exclusively, the study adds.
Several thousand merchants across the country will honor their customers this Saturday and Sunday during “Customer Weekend”. The event aims to highlight “the crucial role of the trade and services sector”.
