The Spanish Confederation of Commerce warns that merchants don’t expect “big discounts” and a “significant rise” in sales during these summer sales, which officially began July 1, but are marked by skyrocketing inflation.
The CPI has risen above two digits in June, the first time it has done so in 37 years. It has been “inevitably” transferred into the final price of products as well as to the very high cost overruns they are currently facing. In recent months, SMEs in the sector and self-employed are both seeing “reduced margins that were already low,” according the employer’s association.
CEC stressed that complex inflationary scenarios are “significantly affecting” families’ purchasing power and consumption. This will logically impact sales and make it difficult to launch a successful sales campaign. . The fact that stores specializing in personal equipment (textiles and footwear, as well as accessories …)) will have less stock will also impact the ability to avoid a significant increase in sales. After registering an increase in sales, exit with aggressive pricing.
Many commercial companies have started this campaign over a week ago, despite it being July 1. This has forced many small and medium-sized businesses forward to compete. They also said that they would not lose sales in the first days.”
President of the CEC Rafael Torres stated that sales periods have lost their power and appeal since 2012’s liberalization. He stated that although they are still maintained by tradition, the deseasonalization and discounting, which are held throughout the year with occasional promotions or discounts have diminished their impact beyond the first few weeks.
The business association is optimistic about the summer, despite the fact that sales are down, and considering the positive employment forecasts made by the tourism sector, it is also cautiously optimistic about the future. This is because the industry is already having an effect on areas like the Balearic Islands and the Canary Islands which are experiencing a revival in sales.