Greek Retailers See Sales Drop as Inflation Squeezes Consumers

Vendors at Chania’s public market report low foot traffic, limited parking and reduced earnings, saying the current price pressures echo the 2010 economic crisis. They note that while prices remain reasonable, many shoppers lack the money to buy, forcing some producers to operate at a loss.

A survey by the Piraeus Chamber of Commerce shows that 55% of Greek retailers recorded lower turnover during the summer discount period, with most seeing a 10‑20% decline. The main causes identified are limited consumer purchasing power and growing competition from online platforms. Businesses hope August will bring a rebound as holiday travel and back‑to‑school shopping increase, and they are calling on the state for measures to boost disposable income and cut operating costs.