The International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC) is urging the EU to protect the rights of retailers to cross borders and do business throughout Europe. At the same time, it says a balance should be struck between retailers’ freedom of establishment and the urban planning objectives of EU member states.

The International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC) is urging the EU to protect the rights of retailers to cross borders and do business throughout Europe. At the same time, it says a balance should be struck between retailers’ freedom of establishment and the urban planning objectives of EU member states.

During a joint discussion with retailers and EU officials in Brussels earlier this month, ICSC highlighted that laws for commercial establishment in Europe should always take the needs of customers, citizens and businesses into account.

Addressing a 70-strong audience, Peter Wilhelm, newly appointed chair of the ICSC’s European Public Affairs Committee, said: 'Providing a level playing field between established retailers, small, large, on the high street or in the city’s periphery, is key in allowing the retail sector to play its role of contributing to jobs and growth in the EU.'

The shopping centre industry employs about 5.1 million retail workers across Europe.

Amongst other things, ICSC is advocating a fairer and more efficient permit process. As it stands, European retailers must acquire both building and commercial permits. 'You could end up investing several million and spending five years on your building permit and at the very end have your commercial permit refused,' Wilhelm pointed out.

Wilhelm argued that shopping centres are a vital platform for retail growth, for SMEs and newcomers and that they provide an opportunity for smaller retailers to access new markets. 'Shopping centres provide a balanced retail offer to consumers and are part of the fabric of a community, generating jobs and a robust supply chain. Supporting new retail concepts is part of that community engagement.”

He added: 'The establishment of retailers should not be dependent on the economic needs of the location, but planning permits should be granted or rejected on the basis of objective criteria and the dialogue between developers and authorities should be clear and transparent.'

The workshop was attended by senior representatives from some of Europe’s largest retail brands. A further workshop will be held on 24 October at which representatives of all 28 member states will be invited to discuss this issue further.