For months, Badalona has been experiencing a new commercial boom marked by the rapid proliferation of establishments dedicated to nail care and decoration, following the trend of other recent commercial fads such as vape shops or mattress specialty stores.
Currently, dozens of such premises have opened in various neighborhoods, with a notable presence on Carrer de Mar, the busiest commercial street in the Centre, and the nearby Carrer d’en Cueta. This trend continues to rise, with new openings expected soon.
These businesses offer the model known as 'Vietnamese nails,' based on affordable prices, rapid treatments, and extended operating hours, a service widely spread in other large cities.
The majority of these establishments are run by immigrants who have found a business opportunity in this sector due to growing demand. The phenomenon generates mixed opinions among residents and merchants.
On one hand, some positively value that these premises occupy vacant commercial ground floors and contribute economic activity to the neighborhoods. On the other hand, some merchants warn of the lack of diversification of the commercial fabric and the risk of saturation in certain areas of Badalona.
