Hello girls, welcome to another week on my blog!
This week, the topic I want to discuss with you is how much traditional commerce is suffering. Here in the North, there's a brutal difference compared to the South: all shopping mall car parks are free. As a result, most people opt for the Shopping Centre.
Many of you have no idea and think that Matosinhos is a privileged area, but at times like these, speaking for myself, we are at a disadvantage compared to shopping centres because street parking is paid and, in my metropolitan area, I have 3 very strong shopping centres around me:
- Norte Shopping (The Unbeatable)
- MarShopping
- Outlet Vila do Conde
- Arrábida Shopping
It's super difficult to work at this time; high street shops are only sought after in the last 3 days because everything is already bought in the big supermarkets. An entire month, and the last 3 days are absolute madness. Over time, tradition has been lost, which is a shame.
I miss the time when the streets were full, with people strolling with gift bags. I miss neighbours going into each other's shops to ask for change, to borrow a bag, to get a piece of ribbon for wrapping. I miss the human warmth of daily conversations, of meetings at the café!
Despite all this, I, with 20 years in retail, still have those loyal customers. You might not believe it, but I already serve 3 generations. The grandmother who bought for her daughter and granddaughter; today, it's the granddaughter who buys for her grandmother and mother... it's beautiful!
I appeal to you, girls, at this time, help traditional commerce, even if it's just a small treat. The service is different, and so is the human warmth! To conclude this week's conversation, I just want to remind you that our shop has a mega promotion, and you can buy your favourite products at a fantastic price!
Shop at traditional commerce, visit us at Rua Brito Capelo, 984, Matosinhos Sul.
A kiss to your hearts, see you next week, with affection.
Carla Valente
