The network of retail businesses in Castellón is facing a challenging period. Between 2023 and 2025, approximately 9% of businesses and 6.7% of establishments have had to close their doors. This situation is attributed to competition from digitalization, rising costs, business consolidation, and demographic changes.
According to the report 'Commercial Distribution in the Valencian Community. Perspectives 2026-2027', prepared by PATECO for the General Directorate of Commerce, Craftsmanship, and Consumption of the Generalitat, the most affected businesses have been those in footwear and leather goods, with an 18.9% reduction in the last two years. Other sectors experiencing significant declines include toy and game stores (-15.9%), food and beverage market stalls (-12.6%), fishmongers (-12.5%), other food products (-11.9%), butcher shops (-11.3%), bakeries (-6.8%), and clothing stores (-5.7%).
In contrast, second-hand goods stores have seen their presence increase in Castellón by 25%. Other growing sectors include telecommunications (9.7%), beverages (8.7%), cosmetics and personal hygiene (6.5%), and bookstores (6.5%).
The province's major cities have been the most impacted. Castelló de la Plana leads in closures with 12.2% between 2023 and 2025, followed by La Vall d'Uixó (9.5%), Vinaròs (6.5%), Benicarló (5.8%), and Burriana (3.9%). Despite this, the capital has 2,036 establishments, ranking among the top five cities with the most businesses in the Valencian Community, behind Valencia, Alicante, and Elche. Vila-real (457), Vinaròs (406), Benicarló (327), Burriana (320), La Vall d'Uixó (319), and Onda (276) are other locations with a significant commercial presence.
