The retail development plan for the pilgrimage town of Kevelaer aims to systematically analyze trends in the local retail sector in Kevelaer and its surrounding communities. It serves as a fact-based decision-making tool for policymakers and administrators to guide retail development throughout the entire municipal area in accordance with planning regulations.
The Kevelaer Retail Development Plan was last updated in 2015. Since then, the broader context has changed significantly. The pilgrimage town of Kevelaer has therefore commissioned CIMA Beratung + Management GmbH, Cologne, to update the Retail Development Plan. The reasons for this include, among others:
- a general structural shift in the retail sector driven by demographic changes, shifting shopping habits, a growing focus on the shopping experience, and a strong emphasis on online retail,
- a noticeable reluctance to spend against the backdrop of global conflicts and crises (such as those in Ukraine, the Middle East, or Iran), rising prices, and a stagnant economy,
- specific changes to the retail landscape in Kevelaer, such as the closure of the REWE store in the Kaufcenter, the opening of the new EDEKA Brüggenmeier store on Antwerpener Platz, and the relocation and modernization of the EDEKA store in Winnekendonk,
- Current considerations regarding the establishment of a neighborhood grocery store in Kervenheim and a new REWE location outside the city center.
Mayor Dr. Dominik Pichler explains:
“By updating the retail plan, we aim to ensure the long-term viability of our retail sector, safeguard local access to goods in the various neighborhoods, and take into account the specific needs of Kevelaer by involving a wide range of stakeholders.”
Procedure, Participation, and Timeline
The basis for cima’s analysis is, first and foremost, a survey of the sales areas of all retail establishments throughout the city. This survey will be conducted by cima staff in the coming weeks.
The residents of the pilgrimage town of Kevelaer are also being actively involved: As part of an online household survey, shopping habits are being examined and feedback, opinions, and suggestions are being gathered—particularly regarding the development of the downtown area. The survey is scheduled for the third quarter of this year. Further information will be provided in a timely manner through the press and the town of Kevelaer’s online media channels.
Following the data collection phase, cima will analyze the existing data and survey results and, based on this analysis, develop the updated retail concept. During this phase, additional engagement opportunities are planned, such as discussions with representatives from the retail sector, the political sphere, and other local stakeholders.
The retail concept is scheduled to be completed in the first half of 2027. This will be followed by deliberation and discussion in the Kevelaer City Council, as well as a public review of the plan. This will establish a transparent and clear basis for future decisions regarding retail, downtown development, and local amenities.