Downtowns and their businesses, despite facing challenges, have not had their final word. That’s the essence of the commerce meetings organized by the Tarbes and Hautes-Pyrénées Chamber of Commerce and Industry. An opportunity to take stock of consumption in Hautes-Pyrénées, to explore new perspectives, and to reward innovative and entrepreneurial businesses.
The Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Tarbes organized the commerce meetings on the future of the commercial sector in the region. An event supported by La Nouvelle République des Pyrénées and La Dépêche du Midi, daily partners of local commerce. “Stores are not decorations in downtowns,” emphasized François-Xavier Brunet, the president of the chamber, who called on consumers to be aware of the impact of their purchases. Stores need customers. As for officials, they must use the programs available for different sizes of municipalities to attract residents back to downtowns and revitalize the area.
This event brought together merchants, officials, and economic actors to analyze the dynamics reshaping downtowns and outskirts. The objective is to shed light on local challenges to envision paths towards a more resilient and innovative commerce. Discussions highlighted that commerce is not a standalone issue but a consequence of various factors such as urban planning, mobility, and housing.
Results from a 2025 household survey conducted by the AID firm for the Occitanie Chamber of Commerce served as a basis for understanding the evolving shopping practices in a context where the pie is not growing but redistributing. These data reveal a profound shift in behaviors, marked by an increasing hybridization between physical purchases and online commerce. Trends analysis over time shows a significant increase in commercial vacancy rates in municipalities with over 15,000 inhabitants between 2004 and 2024. This situation requires operators to rethink their models to meet increased customer demands.
“Raising the level of play”
Consumption expert journalist Olivier Dauvers (M6-RTL) shed light on the necessity for physical retail points to differentiate themselves through a unique product offering. According to him, “the primary reason for visiting a store will always be the offer, the product, the assortment, the merchandise.” This quest for added value is crucial to maintain downtowns’ appeal against digital competition. Merchants must adapt to citizens’ life cycles by adjusting their opening hours and integrating environmental transition issues like repair or second-hand goods. The goal is clear: “Raise your game and become your customers’ preferred merchant.”
The evening was also marked by the presentation of commerce trophies that celebrate innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainable development. These distinctions highlight successful initiatives, proving that many professionals manage to reinvent themselves despite a complex macroeconomic environment. For the consular bodies, it is imperative for officials to consider urban planning to support these efforts. The commerce of tomorrow will no longer be the sole driver of downtowns but will benefit from new flows by embracing a mix of functions including housing and services.
