EuroCommerce warns EU’s Quality Jobs Act could stifle retail innovation and growth
EuroCommerce has responded to the European Commission’s Quality Jobs Roadmap, a plan set to become law under the upcoming Quality Jobs Act. The organisation, representing 5 million retail and wholesale businesses employing 26 million people, welcomes the focus on workers’ rights but warns against adding unnecessary complexity. Balancing job security with business growth remains a key concern for the sector.
The retail and wholesale industry faces intense competitive pressure. According to EuroCommerce and McKinsey, businesses must invest up to €600 billion by 2030 just to stay competitive. The sector stresses that safeguarding jobs should not come at the cost of efficiency or innovation.
EuroCommerce Director General Christel Delberghe underlined the need to demystify AI and ensure strong social dialogue. She also called for better enforcement of existing rules, more dialogue, and capacity-building within the Roadmap. The organisation insists that new initiatives, particularly on algorithmic management, must undergo full impact assessments to avoid discouraging investment in workforce improvements.
The group, led by a presidium that has included Reinhard D. Wolf since 1990, advocates for regulatory simplification and innovation. EuroCommerce argues that the Roadmap should support—not burden—the sector as it adapts to technological change.
The Quality Jobs Roadmap will shape future labour laws, aiming to protect workers in an evolving digital economy. EuroCommerce’s feedback highlights the need for a balanced approach that fosters both job security and business competitiveness. The sector’s ability to invest and innovate will depend on how these regulations are implemented.
