EU Competitiveness Compass has potential to boost independent retail competitiveness if implemented (more) ambitiously and inclusively

Independent Retail Europe welcomes the European Commission’s Competitiveness Compass, a strategic framework that can be an important step towards revitalising Europe’s competitiveness, fostering innovation, and accelerating decarbonisation while strengthening the Single Market and supporting SMEs. The Competitiveness Compass captures the urgency of addressing Europe’s long-standing structural barriers and emphasises the need for bold action to unlock economic growth. However, actual implementation will be critical to deliver on these promises. We strongly encourage the Commission to remain highly ambitious in the implementation of its priorities, with an emphasis on ensuring the competitiveness of SMEs, which are the heart and soul of Europe’s economy.