Shops Open Sunday for First Day of Summer Sales

Commercial stores across Greece will open their doors on Sunday, July 19, to coincide with the first Sunday of the summer sales season.

This initiative is expected to boost the market, particularly with the anticipated surge in tourist activity. Retailers consider this period vital for their performance throughout the remainder of the year. While store operation on Sundays is optional under current legislation, the suggested hours are from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM, with specific timings determined by local trade associations and individual businesses. Smaller shops may close around 6:00 PM, while larger department stores and shopping centers plan to remain open until 8:00 PM.

Market participants note that the success of Sunday's sales will depend on both tourist numbers and weather conditions. High temperatures are forecast, potentially reducing foot traffic during midday, with activity expected to peak in the morning and late afternoon. Despite these factors, optimism remains cautiously high, especially in tourist hotspots like Athens, Piraeus, Thessaloniki, and popular islands, where the peak tourist season is expected to drive significant consumer spending.

Estimates suggest the total turnover for this summer's sales could range between 7 billion and 7.4 billion euros, representing a nominal increase of 2% to 5% compared to last year. The Hellenic Confederation of Commerce and Entrepreneurship (ESEE) is reminding businesses of their obligation to display the previous price of a product alongside any discounted price. This refers to the lowest price applied in the 30 days preceding the discount. Stavros Kafounis, president of ESEE, emphasized that the summer sales are a significant opportunity for Greek commerce, allowing businesses to increase turnover and consumers to make purchases at more favorable prices, provided legality and transparency are maintained.

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The summer sales are an important period for Greek commerce, as they offer businesses the opportunity to increase their turnover and consumers the chance to make purchases at more favorable prices.