Athens catering sector proposal seeks license freeze in saturated areas

Giannis Daveronis, president of the Association of Restaurateurs, Excursionists and Related Businesses of Attica and member of the Athens Chamber of Commerce and Industry, has proposed a freeze on new catering licenses in areas experiencing high business density. The proposal aims to ensure the sustainability of existing businesses in saturated markets, particularly in central Athens, where some small areas host up to 70 competing establishments.

The proposal suggests a market mapping process in collaboration with local authorities to identify saturated zones rather than implementing a nationwide ban. This discussion comes as ELSTAT data shows a 2.5% decline in the catering sector's turnover, falling from 3.245 billion euros in the second quarter of 2025 to 3.165 billion euros in the second quarter of 2026. The industry is currently facing increased operating costs and liquidity pressures.