Shops to open on Sunday for the first weekend of Greece’s summer sales

Shops across Greece will be allowed to open on Sunday, July 19, for the first Sunday of the summer sales period, with retailers hoping that increased tourist traffic will provide a much-needed boost to the market.

The summer sales season is considered crucial for the performance of the retail sector through the end of the year, although expectations remain cautiously optimistic.

Under current legislation, opening on Sunday is optional. The recommended trading hours are from 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., but exact schedules are determined by local trade associations and individual businesses.

Most small and medium-sized shops are expected to remain open until around 6:00 p.m., while department stores, shopping centers and major retail chains are likely to operate until 8:00 p.m.

Heat could affect shopping traffic

The first days of the summer sales traditionally attract increased numbers of shoppers, while the first Sunday of the discount period gives retailers an additional opportunity to draw consumers into commercial districts.

Market representatives warn, however, that Sunday’s turnout will depend largely on tourist traffic and weather conditions.

The high temperatures forecast for the day may reduce the number of shoppers during the afternoon, with retailers expecting the busiest periods to be in the morning and later in the evening.

Tourism is expected to support commercial activity in Athens, Piraeus, Thessaloniki and popular island and mainland destinations as the summer season approaches its peak.

Retail industry estimates suggest that total turnover during this year’s summer sales could reach between €7 billion and €7.4 billion, representing a nominal increase of 2% to 5% compared with the same period last year.

Rules on discount prices

The Hellenic Confederation of Commerce and Entrepreneurship, known as ESEE, has reminded businesses that every price-reduction announcement must also display the product’s previous price.

This must be the lowest price applied during the 30 days preceding the start of the discount.

The reduction may be displayed as a percentage, a specific monetary amount, or through the presentation of both the new and previous price, including a crossed-out original price, in line with the applicable code of conduct.

ESEE president Stavros Kafounis said the summer sales are an important period for Greek commerce, giving businesses an opportunity to increase turnover and consumers a chance to purchase products at lower prices.

He added that compliance with the law, transparency in pricing and maintaining trust between businesses and consumers are essential for the success of the sales period.

Retail workers call nationwide strike

At the same time, the Federation of Private Sector Employees of Greece, known as OIYE, has called a nationwide strike for Sunday.

The federation opposes the operation of shops on Sundays and is demanding, among other measures, the legal protection of Sunday as a mandatory day of rest.