Background on the Situation
As Easter vacation extends for two weeks for schoolchildren, Puebla’s shopping centers predict a modest 20% increase in sales. This is significantly lower than the 30% average recorded during the same period last year.
Insights from Acecop’s Director
Andrés De La Luz Espinoza, the director of Puebla’s Association of Commercial Centers (Acecop), had initially hoped for sales growth comparable to or exceeding last year’s figures, driven by tourists arriving from the south-southeastern states. However, as the vacation nears its end, a cautious outlook persists.
Tourist Demographics
- Tourists are primarily arriving from Veracruz, Chiapas, Oaxaca, and Morelos, with some also coming from Aguascalientes, Monterrey, and Guadalajara.
- These states are neighboring Puebla, indicating a regional focus for tourism.
Economic Uncertainty and Consumer Behavior
De La Luz Espinoza acknowledged that families are facing economic uncertainty due to the ongoing trade dispute between Mexico and the United States, which indirectly affects consumer spending.
Sales Performance During Easter Vacation
Despite decent foot traffic at shopping centers, retailers reported lower-than-expected sales, particularly in clothing and footwear sectors. Notably, prices for seasonal items remained unchanged this year.
- Food-related businesses experienced reasonable activity, though not at the same level as previous years.
- Family consumption was limited, especially among larger groups of six members.
Not a Bad Season for Acecop Members
De La Luz Espinoza clarified that the current season is not detrimental to Acecop’s 74 member complexes, as there has been weekday attendance throughout the vacation period.
Tourism Patterns
- Easter vacation tourists typically visit after the holiday, as religious tourism focuses on churches rather than shopping centers.
- Visitors participating in Good Friday processions remain within the Historic Center, dining and shopping locally.
These tourists usually arrive on Thursday, stay in the area to visit churches, and depart for leisure destinations or return home by Saturday.
Sales Outlook
De La Luz Espinoza emphasized that sales during Easter vacation are generally not high for shopping centers, with better prospects post-holiday. However, current activity levels lag behind those of the previous year.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the expected sales growth during Easter vacation in Puebla’s shopping centers? A modest 20% increase, lower than the 30% average from last year.
- Who are the primary tourists visiting Puebla during Easter vacation? Tourists are mainly arriving from Veracruz, Chiapas, Oaxaca, Morelos, Aguascalientes, Monterrey, and Guadalajara.
- How does the ongoing trade dispute between Mexico and the US affect consumer behavior? The dispute contributes to economic uncertainty, indirectly impacting consumer spending.
- What is the typical shopping pattern of Easter vacation tourists in Puebla? These tourists usually stay within the Historic Center, participating in Good Friday processions and visiting churches.
- Why are sales during Easter vacation not typically high for Puebla’s shopping centers? Religious tourism focuses on churches rather than commercial areas, leading to distinct spending patterns.
