Russia’s Ministry of Industry and Trade has established a benchmark: there should be no fewer than 29 retail outlets for every 10,000 residents. This baseline guides regional planning and is reflected in a framework developed by Rossiyskaya Gazeta for calculating the minimum number of points of sale in each region. The plan divides these 29 stores into two categories, with 13 designated for non-grocery purposes. In addition, six non-fixed trading facilities such as kiosks and pavilions are to be included, alongside a provision for 0.4 trade fairs per 10,000 people. These figures form the core of the regional formula, shaping how commerce infrastructure is spread across communities of varying sizes. (Rossiyskaya Gazeta)
Regional authorities in Russia have the authority to raise these base values but cannot lower them. By the end of the summer, regions must calculate the minimum number of retail outlets based on current population figures. The calculations apply not only to the region as a whole but also to municipalities, counties, and districts, ensuring that the distribution reflects demographic realities at multiple administrative levels. (Rossiyskaya Gazeta)
Support for the policy comes from Kirill Kulakov, who serves as the deputy director general of the Center for Independent Real Estate Expertise. He notes that the reform will help balance the relationship between the availability of stores and actual consumer demand, contributing to a more efficient retail landscape. (Rossiyskaya Gazeta)
Historically, the baseline for calculating minimum store coverage relied on different metrics. The older framework used a standard floor area per resident in grocery and non-grocery sectors, with regional governments applying these calculations independently. The old methodology was widely regarded as overly complex, producing inconsistent results across regions. The shift to a unified baseline aims to streamline planning and improve clarity for both investors and local residents. (Rossiyskaya Gazeta)
Today, the emphasis is on translating population density into tangible retail access. The new rule set encourages a mix of fixed and flexible formats, ensuring that communities of all sizes have convenient access to essential goods and services. By tying the number of stores to population changes, regional authorities can adapt to shifts in demographics, economic activity, and consumer preferences without sacrificing service levels. (Rossiyskaya Gazeta)