Concerns over mounting pressures on Greek commerce were highlighted by Stavros Kafounis, head of the Hellenic Confederation of Commerce and Entrepreneurship, during the presentation of the sector’s annual report.
According to the findings, three out of four businesses have not recorded growth in turnover, with smaller firms facing significantly greater strain. Companies using double-entry accounting posted modest growth of 2.8%, while those with simplified bookkeeping saw turnover decline by nearly 3.6%, with the sharpest pressures observed in clothing and footwear.
Small and medium-sized retail enterprises are also contracting, with 35% reporting a drop in sales. Rising financial obligations, limited liquidity and the challenge of managing price increases were identified as the most pressing issues for the sector.
Despite these headwinds, the report shows that commerce remains the largest employer in Greece, accounting for 17.3% of total employment and contributing 11% to GDP. However, inflation is absorbing nearly all annual turnover growth, limiting real gains.
Structural shifts are also reshaping the market landscape. Changes in global trade rules, evolving consumer behavior favoring digital sales channels and a prolonged shift in spending toward essential goods are placing additional pressure on smaller businesses. High operating costs continue to act as a barrier to investment and reform.
The report also points to intensifying competition for Greek commerce from Asian e-commerce platforms, which are capturing a growing share of consumer spending from physical stores. At the same time, digital transformation and the green transition are emerging as both key challenges and opportunities for Greek businesses navigating an increasingly volatile global environment.
