Mountain Entrepreneurship in Commerce: Challenges and Opportunities: European Mountain Series Analysis (5)

This study analyzes the economic performance and entrepreneurial dynamics in mountain commerce in Europe during 2021-2022, using 28 economic indicators (I1–I28). The results highlight a series of mixed trends, showing signs of resilience but also major challenges. The sector demonstrated notable stability, maintaining the number of active enterprises (I1) and recording an increase in the business survival rate (I6–I9). Additionally, there was an improvement in productivity (I25–I27), indicating that many businesses adapted to market demands.However, significant difficulties were also present, such as business closures (I5) and challenges in accessing funding (I8), which impacted the development of small and micro enterprises. Dependence on seasonal employment (I21) remained a major limiting factor, and some segments of the sector recorded low revenues (I19–I20), reflecting economic challenges in certain areas.Despite these challenges, the sector continued to show signs of adaptability and long-term growth potential. Progressive digitalization (I24) and the implementation of eco-friendly practices (I25) offer significant opportunities for development. Entrepreneurs' adaptability, combined with the adoption of new technologies and sustainability practices, suggests a possible path for growth and strengthening mountain commerce in the long run, despite financial challenges and seasonality.