Retail activity in Limassol’s historic commercial centre softened during the Easter period, as a combination of economic pressure, reduced tourist flows and unseasonal weather weighed on consumer turnout.
Christis Demetriou, representing shop owners in the area, said the dip in footfall was modest but noticeable, and largely driven by external factors rather than underlying weakness in the local market.
According to Demetriou, recent days brought unusually cold and wet conditions more typical of winter, discouraging visits to the city centre and limiting demand for seasonal goods. “Temperatures will gradually improve, so this is not a lasting issue and will pass,” he said.
Beyond the weather, he pointed to broader pressures shaping consumer behaviour. “There is negative sentiment linked to high prices, the war, and lower-than-expected tourist arrivals during this period,” he noted.
Despite the subdued Easter trading, retailers are looking ahead with cautious optimism. Demetriou said recent signs of de-escalation in the region, including the announcement of a two-week ceasefire between the United States and Iran, could help improve the overall climate and support a rebound in activity.
“Our market is heavily influenced by external factors, which I hope will soon stabilise so that things can improve,” he said.
An Easter event held last Sunday on Anexartisias Street, organised in cooperation with the Limassol municipality, provided some support to businesses, though attendance was below expectations due to the rain.
Demetriou stressed that the current slowdown is seen as temporary and justified under the circumstances, expressing confidence that trading conditions will strengthen in the period ahead.
Source: CNA