Survival Struggle: How Independent Retailers Are Transforming Retail
Parijs, maandag, 16 juni 2025.
Independent retailers face crucial challenges in a rapidly changing market. Energy costs, declining revenue, and shifting consumer needs are forcing them into radical innovation. The core of their survival strategy lies in embracing digital transformation and redesigning their business model. By cleverly leveraging technological trends and utilising the unique advantages of physical stores, small retailers can strengthen their position. The most successful entrepreneurs will be flexible, integrate technology, and create a distinctive customer experience that not only competes with online platforms but even surpasses them.
Digital Transformation as a Survival Strategy
Independent retailers must innovate quickly to survive. The Confédération des Commerçants de France signals that small shops are experiencing average revenue declines up to 50 percent, especially in urban areas [1]. Digital solutions are becoming increasingly crucial for their business model. The Paris Chamber of Commerce, for example, offers the ‘Connect Street’ platform, where retailers can test free digital tools such as chatbots, payment systems, and marketing solutions [2].
Challenges of the Modern Retail Market
Chinese e-commerce giants like SHEIN and TEMU pose a significant threat to European independent retailers [3]. Many small shops are confronted with challenging economic conditions, with energy costs and declining consumer spending putting pressure on their profit margins [4]. Strategic adaptations are necessary to survive.
Innovative Survival Strategies
Successful retailers are investing in digital transformation. The ‘Chèque Numérique’ programme of the Ile-de-France region supports small shops with subsidies up to €1,500 for digital innovation [2]. Key focus areas are online visibility, optimised web marketing, and improved customer interaction [5].