In Russia, for the first time since 2000, the number of stores declined: Moscow minus 4,500
Weak demand, rising costs and taxes, and an outflow to marketplaces are forcing chains to scale back their presence across all segments
For the first time since 2000, Russia has recorded a decrease in the number of retail stores: amid a worsening economic situation and a decline in consumer activity, retail outlets are closing en masse across the country.
The outlet Korrespondent reports the trend citing Forbes, which provides data from the consulting company INFOLine. Analysts note that the negative dynamics affect both regional capitals and smaller settlements.
The largest decline is noticeable in the biggest agglomerations. In Moscow over the year the number of retail outlets decreased from 87 thousand to 82.5 thousand. In Saint Petersburg the figure fell from 44 thousand to 42.2 thousand. Similar dynamics are observed in other cities across the country.
Among the key reasons cited are a drop in consumer demand, rising prices of goods and operating costs, and fierce competition from marketplaces. Additional pressure on businesses is created by tightening regulatory requirements and an increased tax burden.
According to experts’ estimates, in 2026 the contraction of networks may accelerate, and closures will affect virtually all segments of retail trade — from small shops to large specialized formats.
Earlier we wrote:
- To “save” the Russian economy: Deripaska proposes a 12-hour workday and a working Saturday in Russia
- Russian ports in the Baltic have halted oil shipments due to attacks by Ukrainian drones
- “Rusal”, the former owner of MGZ, reported a loss of 455 million dollars
- The US has for 30 days allowed the purchase of Russian oil and petroleum products that are already on tankers
- The budget hole has reached the heart of Russia: Moscow is cutting back, regions are collapsing
