If you would like to start a business or you already have one that needs to be moved, then you may need to find a store for rent. Instead of purchasing, you can save money by a store space rental and there are numerous different options out there. You can search for the store spaces available near you through

ImmoScout24 or you can even post an ad stating that you need to rent a store and people who have commercial space available can contact you. This way, you can find the right store space more quickly.

Renting retail space in Switzerland

Retail space (retail, sales or shop space) is suitable for retail and service-oriented businesses. It can be ideal for chain stores, start-ups and local providers. Demand in prime locations remains high, but opportunities are also emerging in neighbourhoods with good public transport links and a growing population.

Retail space at a glance

• Suitable for retail, services and pop-up concepts

• Good visibility and walk-in customers in high-traffic locations

• Commercial rent according to the Swiss Code of Obligations (OR); rent is often linked to the National Consumer Price Index (LIK) and adjusted for inflation

• Permits required for use, conversion and signage

• Disadvantage: higher rents and renovation costs in prime locations

Market overview for retail space in Switzerland

Switzerland recorded population growth of 3.57%, to 9'051'029 people, within three years. The average Swiss income of CHF 81'875 and an unemployment rate of 1.47% bolster the population’s purchasing power. The housing market has a vacancy rate of 1.01% (flats), and with a total of 4'840'096 flats, there is significant pressure on the market. These figures indicate a shortage of space in sought-after urban locations, making retail space on the ground floor particularly desirable. At the same time, consumer behaviour is shifting: concepts such as omni-channel retail, click & collect and short-term rentals (pop-ups) are gaining ground. In more remote locations, lower rents offer potential for niche products and services.

What costs are associated with retail space?

In addition to the net rent (usually per m²), there are utility costs for operation, heating, water and building maintenance; these are often charged as provisional advance payments with an annual statement. Commercial space may be subject to VAT (tax opting). A rental deposit and costs for fit-out/interior design, signage, IT, insurance and removals are standard. For reference: rental properties cost an average of CHF 1640 per month (flats). Commercial rents vary significantly depending on their location and size – compare square-metre prices and contract terms.

A step-by-step guide to deciding whether retail space is right for you

1. Define requirements: space, budget, target group, product range.

2. Assess location: footfall, visibility, competition, public transport/parking.

3. Clarify building regulations: usage zone, building permit, advertising permit, fire safety.

4. Review the lease agreement: term, notice periods, rent linked to the National Consumer Price Index (LIK), utility costs, subletting.

5. Plan fit-out: renovation costs, tenant fit-out vs. landlord fit-out, deadlines.

6. Secure financing: deposit, liquidity, insurance and ongoing operating costs.

Next steps

Start your search by filtering available properties by size and location; arrange viewings at different times of the day and carefully review documents such as floor plans, building permits and tenancy agreements. Our portal offers comparison tools for prices per square metre, footfall and contract details – so you can take informed decisions and find the right retail space.