Event title: Independent retail: A cornerstone of vibrant local communities in Europe
Date: Wednesday 5 February 2025
Time: 18:00 – 21:00 (mandatory common group entrance at 17:00)
Location: European Parliament, Brussels
Organisers: Independent Retail Europe in partnership with SME Connect
Hosting MEP: Jörgen WARBORN (EPP, SE)
Did you know that groups of independent retailers represent a significant share of the EU retail sector? Did you know that independent retail plays a vital role in Europe’s economic and social fabric?
This event will bring together SME retailers, representatives of groups of independent retailers and MEPs to discuss the significant advantages of the business model of groups of independent retailers, which is essential to keep SME retail competitive, support the local economy, sustain employment and raise consumer welfare. The event will also address the challenges faced by independent retailers and how EU policymakers can support them in the new EU mandate.
Key topics:
- Competitiveness: Why the unique business model of groups of independent retailers is essential for the competitiveness of SME retail.
- Local impact: How independent retailers support local communities and regional economies across Europe.
- EU policy support: How MEPs can support independent retailers and their groups in EU policy development.
Event Agenda (Draft):
Moderator: Tamsin ROSE, communications expert and former journalist
Opening remarks
- Else GROEN, Director General of Independent Retail Europe
- Horst HEITZ, Chair SME Connect Steering Committee
- Host MEP Jörgen WARBORN
How SME retailers thrive because of their group business model
- by Thomas NONN, President of Independent Retail Europe
- Film Presentation: A short film illustrating how groups of independent retailers operate across Europe.
- Panel Discussion (40 minutes total): Featuring 3 SME retailers from prominent retail groups
Followed by reactions from MEPs and Q&A with the audience
- Else GROEN, Director General of Independent Retail Europe: Highlighting the main policy asks from our manifesto.
- Moderator Tamsin ROSE: Concluding remarks
Networking Session with walking dinner