Market moves into festive peak
The Cypriot retail market has fully entered the Christmas period, with businesses preparing for a sharp increase in consumer activity over the coming days. Speaking on SIGMA’s programme “Mesimeri kai Kati”, General Secretary of the Pancyprian Retail Trade Association (PASYLE), Marios Antoniou, said footfall is expected to rise significantly from Saturday, 20 December.
Last-minute shopping remains the norm
According to Antoniou, Cypriot consumers continue to shop at the last minute, making Christmas Eve once again the most commercial day of the year.
As regards opening hours, general retail stores and supermarkets are operating under extended schedules. However, consumers are urged to plan their Christmas Eve shopping carefully, as all stores will close earlier than usual, around 6pm.
He also reminded the public that shops will remain closed on 25 and 26 December, reopening normally on 27 December.
Physical stores remain resilient
Commenting on competition from international online platforms such as Temu and Shein, Antoniou stressed that “in Cyprus, the physical store remains the most vibrant core of retail trade.”
He explained that consumers still value personal interaction and the ability to see and try products before purchasing, factors that continue to support the local market despite strong price and variety competition from online retailers.
Lamb prices between €10 and €13 per kilo
Special reference was made to meat prices ahead of the festive table. Due to restrictions on imports from Greece following outbreaks of sheep pox, the Cypriot market will rely primarily on domestic production this year.
Antoniou assured there will be no supply shortages, noting that Cypriot lamb prices will range between €10 and €13 per kilo. Limited quantities of Greek lamb, if available, are expected to be slightly more expensive, reaching up to €14 per kilo.
Pork prices remain stable, ranging from €4.50 to €6 per kilo, depending on the cut.
When winter sales begin
Regarding the upcoming sales period, Antoniou said that following the Christmas holidays, shops will reopen on 27 December, when initial winter discounts- mainly in clothing and footwear- are expected to begin.
However, the main winter sales period for the vast majority of businesses is expected to start on 7 January, immediately after the Epiphany holiday.
Also read: Day 2: Top Christmas songs’ streams & royalties
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