In just one year, the City of Geneva has seen vacant retail space soar by 39%, between June 2024 and June 2025.
The increase is striking, especially as the rest of the canton saw only a modest 4% rise, according to the Cantonal Statistics Office (OCSTAT).
The reasons are complex.
Online shopping and the ease of cross-border purchases in France weigh heavily, while stricter leasing conditions and soaring rents make it increasingly difficult for new retailers to establish themselves.
But industry voices highlight a deeper shift.
They say many retailers fail to adapt to digital realities, lacking websites or social media strategies.
Experts conclude this is less of a sudden collapse and more of a structural transformation, traditional retail is shrinking, weaker players are squeezed out, and only those able to navigate higher costs and digital competition will remain.
Parliament rejects WHO alcohol policy
Cyclist dies near the UN
Govt may buy fewer F-35s due to cost
Amnesty slams Bern police
Two men given house arrest after stealing vignettes
What's likely under the tree this year?
