Shops will be open tomorrow, Sunday, July 19, as part of the first Sunday of the summer sales in Greece, with retailers hoping that the increased tourist traffic will boost the market during a period considered crucial for the retail sector’s performance through the end of the year.

Store operations are optional under the current legal framework. The proposed hours are from 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., although operating hours are determined by local trade associations and the businesses themselves. Thus, most small and medium-sized retail stores are expected to serve the public until around 6:00 p.m., while department stores, shopping malls, and large retail chains are expected to remain open until 8:00 p.m.

The first few days of the summer sales have historically seen increased foot traffic in retail markets, while the first Sunday of the sales period offers retailers an additional opportunity to attract consumers. Market analysts note, however, that tomorrow’s retail traffic will depend to a significant extent on both tourist traffic and weather conditions. The high temperatures forecast may limit foot traffic during midday hours, with the market expecting higher foot traffic in the morning and late afternoon.

Expectations remain cautiously optimistic, as the peak of the tourist season is expected to boost foot traffic in the commercial districts of Athens, Piraeus, Thessaloniki, as well as popular island and mainland destinations. According to estimates from the retail sector, total sales during this year’s summer sales may range between 7 and 7.4 billion euros, representing a nominal increase of 2% to 5% compared to the same period last year.

The Hellenic Confederation of Commerce and Entrepreneurship (ESEE), on the occasion of the sales season, reminds businesses that any announcement of a price reduction must also include the product’s previous price, that is, the lowest price charged during the 30 days prior to the discount’s first application. The price reduction may be presented either as a discount percentage, as a specific amount, or by listing the new and previous prices or the crossed-out old price, in accordance with the current Code of Ethics.

The president of the Hellenic Confederation of Commerce and Entrepreneurship (ESEE), Stavros Kafounis, noted in a statement that the summer sales are an important period for Greek commerce, as they offer businesses the opportunity to boost their sales and give consumers the chance to make purchases at more favorable prices. As it emphasizes, compliance with the law, price transparency, and the maintenance of a relationship of trust between businesses and consumers are prerequisites for the success of the sales period.

At the same time, the Federation of Private Sector Employees of Greece (OIYE) has called for a nationwide strike on Sunday, expressing its opposition to retail stores operating on Sundays and demanding, among other things, the enshrinement of Sunday as a day of rest.

Source: APE-MPE