Retail changes in Paris

Paris is undergoing a significant transformation in its retail sector, with some areas growing while others are shrinking, according to the 2026 trends. The city has seen a loss of 510 commercial businesses and services between 2023 and 2026, leaving a total of 60,517 such businesses.

Historical decline in businesses

Since the year 2000, Paris has lost a total of 2,906 commercial businesses. Despite this decline, certain types of businesses remain popular, including roasters, bakeries, and ice cream shops, which continue to attract customers.

Cafes and restaurants grow

The number of cafes and restaurants in Paris has increased by 3.6% since 2023. However, traditional dining establishments are facing challenges due to reduced consumer spending power, while fast food and takeout services are thriving.

Declining sectors

Several traditional sectors are declining, including butchers, fishmongers, real estate agencies, travel agencies, and banks. Clothing and shoe stores have also struggled, with many going bankrupt. In contrast, thrift stores have grown, with 83 new stores opening since 2023.

Fitness centers expand

Fitness centers are expanding rapidly, with 70 new locations opening in three years. This growth is attributed to an "aggressive strategy by large fitness groups," according to Alexandre Labasse, general director of the Apur (Paris Urban Planning Workshop), who led the survey.

Medical offices and food density

Medical offices in shared spaces are increasing, a trend that started about fifteen years ago. The density of food businesses in Paris is 3.2 per 1,000 inhabitants, which is higher by a third compared to other major French cities like Lyon or Marseille.

Vacancy rates and bookstores

The vacancy rate for commercial premises in Paris remains at 11.7%, a slight increase from 2023. Bookstores are also declining, with one in five located in city-owned premises. Since 2025, 38 bookstores have closed.

Cash transactions and business ethics

Emmanuel Grégoire, the PS mayor of Paris, acknowledged that "competitive distortions" exist, with some businesses benefiting from cash injections that may facilitate their establishment. He did not directly link these transactions to drug trafficking but acknowledged the phenomenon.