Folkingestraat in the top 3 of the best streets in the country

In the top 10 of shopping streets without long-term vacancy, the Elandsgracht takes first place, followed by the Groest in Hilversum and then the Groningen Folkingestraat. “Although it is an approach street, it is still a popular place for independent retailers. This creates a unique positioning of the area,” the researchers conclude.

The research also shows that in Groningen, just like in the rest of the country, healthcare businesses, such as tattoo parlors, are springing up like mushrooms. Six such cases were added in Groningen. Second-hand clothing stores are also popular, with 7 new ones opening in the city last year.

The researchers conclude that relatively few retail properties in Groningen (less than 6.4 percent) are unlet for a long time. However, attention must be paid to two specific buildings, Herestraat 75 and Herestraat 76A. One was rented by KPN and has been empty for some time and across the street is a store that has been without a tenant for more than three years. Men at Work was previously located here. After the bankruptcy of this store, no other entrepreneur came forward. “It shows the consequences of a slow approach to vacancy.”