Panic in Majorca as for-sale signs pop up on bars and shops | World | News
Many of Majorca’s popular tourist attractions are facing a growing crisis; A significant number of bars and shops in the area are up for sale, causing alarm among local businesses. As the winter season lengthens, many business owners have had to close their doors due to a severe lack of visitors.
“For Sale” and “For Rent” signs have become increasingly common on the streets of Magaluf and Palmanova in recent weeks, raising questions about the future of the iconic resorts. While most establishments generally rely on the influx of tourists during the summer months, there was a significant decrease in foot traffic during the winter season. The situation is so dire that locals describe the once vibrant areas as “completely abandoned”.
“No one is coming so far,” said one of the few shopkeepers remaining open in Palmanova at the end of January. Majorca Daily Bulletin. “Imserso tourists [Spanish pensioners who participate in a government-subsidised holiday program] When you came, you would sell things and there was a job.
“There is nothing now, just occasional customers or locals who know we are open and don’t want to go to Palma.”
Meanwhile, the manager of a bar in Magaluf explained that they only serve regular customers, retirees and local residents and “not much else.”
“I’m opening up because you can always make some money, but it’s not enough,” he added.
There are signs next to his bar that say “traspasa”. These boards represent a business transfer in which a new owner takes over the operating lease, equipment, and customer base rather than simply purchasing the property.
In a bid to boost Majorca’s vital winter industry, the Acotur association of tourist services businesses has asked Calvia Town Hall and hotel owners to make efforts to open earlier than usual. Pepe Tirado, president of the association, said: “This will help revitalize the rest of the tourism industry, which is currently at a standstill. The streets are completely deserted; nothing is open and that is sad.”
The president added that the winter season is increasingly shortening, with most tourists waiting until Easter to visit, leading to more facilities being put on the market and difficulties recruiting staff.
“Competition from large shopping malls is another handicap for small businesses that cannot compete on price,” he said. “There is also parking and other advantages. There are also rents; “Rents are rising and are becoming unaffordable for many.”
“The solution is to open hotels earlier. When hotels close, no one comes here.”
