Businesses in Lleida's main commercial artery face with resignation the announcement by Mayor Fèlix Larrosa regarding the start of work on the new shopping center. Despite being an expected event, the competition from Promenade in Torre Salses generates concern, as merchants assume they will lose foot traffic and some franchises.
“"It is clear that this is not a positive announcement for commerce and the city; the center will empty out. It will obviously affect us commercially, and in terms of the flow of people."
The associations advocate for facing a “stage of adaptation, struggle, and resistance” to defend commerce in the city center. Mariona Rovira, president of the Sant Antoni merchants, pointed out that the impact of Torre Salses will be “transversal” and will cause a temporary displacement of demand, especially on weekends.
To counteract the effect, there is a proposal to utilize the space of the current bus stop on Saracíbar street, which will move to the new Príncep de Viana terminal. Pilar Agulló, president of the Democràcia and Cardenal Remolins merchants, sees the new station as an opportunity to retain businesses and clientele, especially due to its proximity.
The Promenade center already has several confirmed brands, such as Cines Yelmo, Esclat, Sprinter, and Maisons du Monde. The sector also takes for granted that large groups like Inditex (including Zara and Pull&Bear) and other chains currently present in the Eix, such as H&M or Druni, plan to set up shop in the new retail park.
