Historic centres in Italy's
medium-sized cities are at risk of "desertification" based on a
decreased presence of traditional shops, according to a study by
consumer group Confcommerico released Thursday.
The study revealed a 16.7% drop in the number of shops in
Italian historic centres between 2008-2015, representing a total
of 3,240 fewer stores, primarily due to increasing rent prices.
Of the 39 cities in the study, Trieste was hit hardest with
a drop of 25.2%, followed by Perugia at 22.9% and Potenza at
21.8%.
Despite the decrease in downtown stores, there was a 9.8%
increase in tourist service businesses such as hotels, bars, and
restaurants, the study said.
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