Barcelona’s commercial sector faces significant pressure as escalating rents force numerous businesses to close or relocate, prompting appeals for landlord solidarity. The average commercial rent across the city reached €18.90 per square metre in 2024, with Ciutat Vella experiencing the highest prices.
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This surge in costs has led to the closure of long-standing establishments such as Ferreteria Camps, Forn Santa Clara, and Pastisseria Rovira d’Horta in recent months. Unlike residential properties, commercial premises currently have no legal rent caps in Spain, exacerbating the problem.
Francesc Hidalgo, owner of La Grangeta del Raval, explained his business relocated after 18 years when his landlord demanded an additional €800 per month upon contract renewal. “They can ask for whatever they want, but it is an outrage, all the taxes paid, and all of this cannot be passed on to the coffee or lunch because people cannot afford more either,” Mr Hidalgo stated.
The Eix Comercial del Raval reports recent rent increases of 30% to 40% for local businesses. Jordi Bordas, manager of the entity, noted, “We have lost between 20 and 30 members in the last four years who closed due to rent issues.” He added that the Rambla del Raval sees average rents of €6,000 per month.
Ajuntament and Generalitat Seek Solutions
The Ajuntament de Barcelona has committed to addressing this complex issue. In February, the Economy and Treasury Commission approved a motion from Esquerra Republicana de Catalunya (ERC). This motion obliges the municipal government to analyse legal avenues with the Generalitat to regulate commercial rents in “tensioned areas.”
Implementing commercial rent limits presents a significant challenge. The Urban Leases Act (LAU) is a state-level law, meaning any local regulation would need to navigate complex jurisdictional boundaries. Despite these hurdles, the Generalitat has established various working groups. These groups aim to study methods for strengthening the commercial fabric across Catalonia.
The Catalan government is also engaging with other autonomous communities. This collaborative effort seeks a shared approach to the issue.
Appeals for Landlord Solidarity
While administrative solutions are explored, the Fundació Barcelona Comerç is directly appealing to property owners for solidarity. Pròsper Puig, president of the entity, acknowledges the difficulty of limiting prices for commercial spaces. He notes they are not considered a primary necessity like housing.
“What should be done is to raise awareness among owners because they have an asset from which they can extract maximum performance, but they should not suffocate the business,” Mr Puig urged. This appeal highlights the immediate need for landlords to consider the viability of local businesses.
Ciutat Vella Sees Sharpest Increases
Data from the Ajuntament reveals Ciutat Vella is the most expensive district for commercial rent. It averages €33 per square metre in 2024. This represents a substantial increase of €9.20 per square metre from 2023 figures.
Sarrià-Sant Gervasi and Gràcia also show significant rent increases, following Ciutat Vella as the city’s priciest areas for commercial leases. These rising costs disproportionately affect small and independent businesses. They struggle to compete with larger chains or absorb such significant overheads.
The commercial sector faces additional pressures beyond rent increases. These include generational handover, digitalisation, and the crucial task of talent acquisition.
The ongoing dialogue between the Ajuntament and Generalitat, alongside appeals to landlords, highlights the urgent need for sustainable solutions. Barcelona’s vibrant commercial landscape depends on finding a balance that supports local businesses while respecting property rights. This collective effort aims to preserve the city’s unique commercial identity for residents and tourists alike.
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Originally published by betevé. Read original article.
