Paraguay businesses brace for consumption surge ahead of World Cup match

A wave of 'Albirroja fever' and promotional offers is sweeping across Paraguay as businesses gear up for the nation's crucial World Cup knockout match against France. Supermarkets, convenience stores, shopping centers, and local bodegas are all stepping up their preparations, recognizing the significant boost this event gives to domestic consumption.

Past tournament experiences have shown that matches involving Paraguay's national team, known as 'La Albirroja,' consistently drive sales. Retailers are adjusting logistics and restocking shelves to prevent stockouts. Damián Fernández, a representative from the Association of Bodegueros of Paraguay (ABP), reported that businesses are stocking a wide variety of merchandise. Beyond the ever-popular beer, consumers are also opting for fernet, flavored rum, wine, and whiskey, especially given the current climate.

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We compete with supermarkets and convenience stores with a wide variety of products like premium drinks or multiple brands of beer at all prices. We also differentiate ourselves in the personalized service that the customer deserves when choosing a product.

Fernández highlighted that bodegas are competing with larger supermarkets and convenience stores by offering a diverse selection of premium drinks and various beer brands at different price points. They also emphasize personalized customer service. He noted that since the start of Paraguay's World Cup campaign, bodegas have seen increased sales, even during the colder season which typically sees a dip in beer consumption.

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The beverage sector with and without alcohol, butcher shops, cold cuts, and bakeries are the most sought-after. The chain is also launching the 'Golazo' promo, offering 30% discount to its customers.

Convenience stores operating 24 hours are also reinforcing their stock of high-demand items. Luis Forcadell, CEO of Biggie, mentioned that beverages, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic, along with meat, cold cuts, and bakery items, are the most sought-after products. The chain is also running a "Golazo Promo" offering a 30% discount. Forcadell acknowledged that the team's recent performance significantly boosted sales by 50%, despite unfavorable weather. He expressed optimism that advancing to the quarterfinals could potentially double revenue.

The Paraguayan Chamber of Supermarkets (Capasu) assured that supplies are guaranteed for items commonly associated with social gatherings, such as barbecue cuts and snacks. With high expectations for the match, stores are well-stocked, and some have even requested additional orders to meet anticipated demand.

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If Paraguay advances to the quarterfinals, this tends to increase for the better in sales levels, potentially even doubling the revenue level.