62,507 retail outlets listed in Paris: changes and trends.
A new survey of retail outlets in Paris was undertaken in March and April, 2017, at the instigation of the City of Paris, the Paris Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Apur. The study gives an overall picture of the state of play of the retail sector and how it has changed and is changing, both since 2014, date of the last survey, and long term, as the first surveys date from 2000. Apur has also developed three interactive maps, so that finding out about shops in Paris is more enjoyable.
In 2017, there were 62,507 shops and commercial services in Paris, which translates into a very high commercial density compared to that observed in provincial city centres and also compared to the 11 other Public Territorial Establishments which make up the Grand Paris Metropolis.
Transformations in Parisian society and its modes of consumption are reflected and highlighted in the way retail outlets are evolving. High population density and the way people travel around the city mostly on foot, are ensuring the survival of a variety of small, local shops. Some shops have become more upmarket – a shift made possible by the rise in spending power of the inhabitants.
Technological changes are having an effect on the way commercial outlets are evolving. The use of the internet to shop online, get information or as a leisure activity is turning some clients away from newsagents, travel agencies, video clubs, photographic and electronic supply shops… These shops are in decline and are making room for new businesses.
Compared to the previous survey, new trends are emerging: small, traditional food shops are on the increase after a long period of decline; wholesalers are still declining fast; commercial services linked to well-being are continuing to grow; repair and recycling businesses are developing as a result of the crisis and the desire for a more sustainable society; and finally, the rate of vacant premises is rising slowly after a fairly marked decrease between 2011 – 2014. The number of vacant premises is 9.3% of total ground-floor premises as against 9.1% in the previous period.
2017 data for commercial activity in Paris are available on Open Data.
