In 2023, the number of self-employed individuals in Germany's retail sector (excluding motor vehicles and motorcycles) stood at a notable figure. The forecast for 2024 projects a population of 258,000 self-employed individuals, experiencing a decline to 249,000 in 2025. This downward trend continues, with projections indicating figures of 241,000 in 2026, 233,000 in 2027, and 225,000 by 2028. This represents a consistent year-on-year decline through the forecast period, highlighting challenges in the sector's self-employment appeal.

Future trends to watch for include:

Potential shifts towards online retailing and digital platforms influencing self-employment opportunities.
Impacts of economic policies or initiatives geared towards small business support.
Technological advancements and market digitization affecting traditional retail practices.
Social and consumer behavior changes influencing self-employment sustainability in retail.