Crisis in retail: Vorpommern-Greifswald falls by the wayside!

Crisis in retail: Vorpommern-Greifswald falls by the wayside!

In Western Pomerania-Greifswald the signs point to change. The recently published Nordkurier Home Check 2025 shows that the region's citizens paint a mixed picture of their quality of life. With over 16,600 participants, including 1,577 from Western Pomerania-Greifswald, diverse aspects of life in the region were illuminated. The respondents expressed both satisfaction and an urgent need for action, particularly in retail and catering.

Retail in focus

The survey found that significant improvements are needed in retail and restaurants. Although basic services in Vorpommern-Greifswald are valued, there is a lack of variety and quality, which leads to bottom rankings compared to other districts. The values ​​from Spantekow are particularly worrying, where the catering industry only received 1.88 points and the retail sector received 2.44 points. In contrast, Bad Doberan shines with a high satisfaction score of 9.88 points in retail. There is a clear appeal to decision-makers: the region urgently needs investments to increase its attractiveness for residents and tourists.

Gastronomy under scrutiny

The catering industry is also viewed critically, especially in rural areas. Here, residents want a broader gastronomic offering that combines traditional and modern concepts and strengthens regional identity. While tourist hotspots can already offer special offers, there is a lack of choice in less frequented regions. The increased prices in the catering industry in particular are perceived as the main point of criticism in low-income areas. The people in the region are therefore demanding a greater focus on local products and seasonal ingredients in order to develop a distinctive culinary profile.

Urban-rural discrepancy and quality of life

A widespread feeling is the discrepancy between urban and rural areas. While the people of Greifswald appreciate what they have to offer, rural communities have to face the reality that they are lagging behind when it comes to choice. Overall, 49% of those surveyed rated the quality of life in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania as high compared to the rest of the country, with the natural conditions being particularly positive. Thanks to its natural beauty and diverse recreational opportunities, 82% are very satisfied with the local recreational opportunities. This shows that the region does have challenges, but also has great potential that needs to be leveraged.

A look into the future

Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania is described as a country worth living in, and tourism plays a crucial role in this. 87% of those surveyed consider it important for the region, and 62% believe that it improves the image of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. The upcoming second survey in summer 2024 will provide exciting new insights in order to further narrow down the need for action and develop solutions.

Overall, it can be said that the home check is a valuable tool for communities. It is clearly documented how citizens perceive their quality of life and what their needs are. The challenges ahead require innovative approaches and a good hand in planning and implementation in order to present Vorpommern-Greifswald as a place worth living in for everyone. Further details on this can be found here as well as here be read.