Background on José Juan Ayala Vázquez and His Role
José Juan Ayala Vázquez, the president of the Center Historic District Merchants Council in Puebla, has been a prominent figure advocating for the improvement of local businesses. His leadership and insights are crucial in understanding the recent positive changes in Puebla’s central business district.
Sales Surge in Puebla’s Central Business District
Over the past five months, the reduction of informal street vendors in Puebla’s Historic Center by approximately 70% has led to a 20% increase in sales for local businesses, according to Ayala Vázquez.
Ayala Vázquez’s Perspective on the Situation
Ayala Vázquez emphasized that the removal of unauthorized vendors operating with impunity has been a positive step for the area’s businesses. He acknowledged that while businesses hope for significant growth, it will likely be a gradual process throughout the year, contingent on the authorities’ ability to prevent the return of informal commerce.
Challenges and Concerns
- Competition from Informal Vendors: Ayala Vázquez highlighted the unfair competition posed by informal vendors, who thrived under previous administrations. He stressed the importance of maintaining a level playing field for established businesses.
- Staffing Levels: Currently operating at 70% staff capacity, Ayala Vázquez expects to reach full complement by the end of 2025. He acknowledged that the informal vendors’ absence has allowed businesses to function adequately, despite staffing constraints.
- Informal Vendors’ Resistance: Ayala Vázquez recognized the reluctance of informal vendors to leave the area, as they benefit from high sales at the expense of established businesses. He stressed that such a situation cannot be tolerated in Puebla, as the municipality charges permits and renewals to established businesses while disregarding the negative impact of unfair competition.
- Prioritizing Formality: Ayala Vázquez praised the current administration for prioritizing business formality over informal vendors, who have been gradually removed due to consistent public space inspections.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the main reason for the sales increase? The reduction of informal street vendors in Puebla’s Historic Center has led to a more favorable environment for local businesses, resulting in a 20% sales increase.
- What challenges do businesses still face? Despite the positive changes, businesses are operating at 70% staff capacity and face ongoing concerns about informal vendors returning to the area.
- How is the current administration addressing these issues? The administration prioritizes business formality and ensures consistent public space inspections, leading to the gradual removal of informal vendors.
