The Alt Empordà council seeks to address the leakage of customers towards commercial centers in the region that offer greater selection and competitive prices. This expansion, expected to be brought to the municipal plenary during February, aims to consolidate Figueres as a shopping tourist destination and revitalize areas like the Vilatenim axis.
The Councilor for Commerce, Manel Rodríguez, emphasized the importance of the measure for competitiveness. Before promoting it, the City Council sought consensus from involved parties, including Comerç Figueres, unions, and consumer associations.
“"We must be competitive and have the tools to compete with other municipalities so that, on Sundays and holidays, people from Figueres do not go shopping elsewhere."
The agreement signed with PIMEC, Comerç Figueres Associació, the Girona Chamber of Commerce, UGT, and the Union of Consumers of Catalonia establishes labor guarantees. Service provision on Sundays and holidays will be voluntary, with economic compensation or time off, ensuring the protection of workers' rights.
“"The expansion is a measure designed to revitalize urban commerce, retain consumers, and create quality employment."
Frederic Carbó, President of Comerç Figueres, stressed that opening large surfaces and shops on Sundays is “positive for Figueres” to prevent customers from leaving for places like La Jonquera or La Roca Village. He also insisted on the need for downtown commerce to differentiate itself by offering artisanal and unique products.
