Barcelona has launched the European Capital of Local Commerce 2026 with an event at the Saló de Cent in City Hall, highlighting the strategic role of commerce in the city. The recognition distinguishes Barcelona as the first Visionary City in the category of cities with more than 250,000 inhabitants, thanks to a model based on proximity, diversity and strong local roots. 

Over the next twelve months, a programme of more than 200 activities will be rolled out across the city’s ten districts. It has been designed with the participation of more than 70 organisations and sector stakeholders. The initiatives are structured around three main areas: promotion, reflection and legacy, with the aim of strengthening the commercial fabric and projecting it at European level. 

Key actions include the Local Commerce Fair, which will take place on 9 and 10 May in Plaça de les Glòries; a new consumer voucher campaign to encourage purchases in local shops; and institutional recognition for businesses with 25, 50 and 100 years of history. The programme will also include debate spaces such as the European Forum of Cities and Regions for Local Commerce and the European Benchmarking Sessions, as well as the creation of the European Observatory of Local Commerce to strengthen data collection and cooperation between cities. 

The capital status will also help drive new strategic lines, including the Local Commerce Strategic Plan 2035 and the Markets Plan, aimed at consolidating the sector and adapting it to current challenges. A new label will also be developed to identify businesses aligned with the values of Barcelona’s commercial model. 

Commerce is a key sector for the city’s economy, representing 13.2% of Barcelona’s GDP, with more than 60,000 establishments and over 152,000 people employed. Beyond its economic impact, local commerce contributes to social cohesion, activates public space and strengthens neighbourhood life. 

With this capital status, Barcelona reinforces its position as a European benchmark for local commerce and begins a year of activities to boost its visibility, competitiveness and role as an economic and social driver.