Quo Vadis Graz: TALK IN THE TOWER Preview

Graz, Austria – February 1, 2026 – City centers across Europe are grappling with a familiar challenge: how to stay vibrant in the face of online shopping and sprawling retail parks. A recent discussion in Graz, Austria, brought together local leaders and business owners to brainstorm solutions, focusing on accessibility, transportation, and the potential of a major rail project.

Revitalizing City Centers: A Collaborative approach

Experts in Graz are exploring strategies to ensure their city centre remains economically and culturally appealing amidst evolving retail landscapes.

• The discussion centered on making Graz more business-kind for retailers and restaurants.
• Accessibility and the city’s transport concept were key areas of focus.
• The potential benefits of the Koralmbahn railway project were also examined.
• Participants included representatives from the local chamber of commerce, pharmacies, city management, hotels, and a delicatessen.

What adjustments does graz need to make to compete with the convenience of online retail and the allure of large shopping centers? That was the central question at the SPIRIT Talk held at the tower in Technopark Raaba. Participants explored ways to enhance the city’s appeal,not just for shoppers,but for everyday life.

Pro tip-Graz is prioritizing a holistic approach, recognizing that a thriving city center requires more than just retail; it needs to be a desirable place to live, work, and visit.

The Importance of Accessibility and Transport

Improving accessibility and the overall transport concept were identified as crucial steps. The Koralmbahn, a planned railway line, was specifically mentioned as a potential catalyst for positive change. The railway could significantly improve connectivity and bring more visitors to the city center.

The conversation included input from a diverse group of stakeholders. Bernhard bauer of the WKO regional office Graz,Johannes lembeck of Sun pharmacy,Elisa-Maria Steinberger from city Management Graz,Anton Tropper of delicatessen Nussbaumer,and Florian Weitzer of Florian Weitzer Hotels & Restaurants all contributed to the discussion. The event was moderated by Hannes Schreiner, CEO of Technopark Raaba.

Reader question-What specific incentives could Graz offer to attract new businesses and encourage existing ones to expand within the city center? Share your thoughts!

A Focus on Business Friendliness

Participants also delved into how to make Graz a more attractive location for businesses, particularly retail and restaurants. Specific measures to support these sectors were discussed, aiming to create a more favorable habitat for growth and investment.

A detailed follow-up report is slated for publication in the February issue.