Big and small retailers have a critical role in revitalising cities and creating growth in Europe. The Services Directive promised to make it easier for them to open shops anywhere in the EU, but barriers remain. This means fewer new outlets, competition and ultimately, higher prices for consumers. And e-commerce makes this reality no less relevant. With the need to integrate online and in-store sales, online businesses increasingly recognise the value of having a physical presence.

Speakers

• Ilya Bruggeman, Adviser Internal Market and Consumer Affairs, EuroCommerce
• Géraldine Fages, Senior Expert, European Commission, DG GROW
• Simone Mancini, Senior Policy Advisor, IKEA Group
• Peter Wilhelm, Chair of European Public Affairs Committee, International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC)

Moderated by Erik van der Marel, Senior Economist, ECIPE