Investment in Puebla’s Historic Center to Transform Six Properties into Small Commercial Plazas
In Puebla’s Historic Center, investors are set to renovate at least six properties into small commercial plazas, aiming to lure businesses that left due to inadequate spaces. José Juan Ayala Vázquez, president of the Consejo de Comerciantes del Centro Histórico, stated that these investments will create around 400 local businesses, the highest number in the past three years.
Background on José Juan Ayala Vázquez
José Juan Ayala Vázquez is the president of the Consejo de Comerciantes del Centro Histórico, an organization representing local businesses in Puebla’s Historic Center. His role is crucial as he advocates for the interests of these businesses and works towards improving the commercial environment in the area.
Current Situation and Challenges
The Historic Center has faced challenges, including rising rent costs and insufficient services like electricity and parking. These factors have led to the departure of long-standing businesses, replaced by franchises such as clothing stores, fast-food chains, pharmacies, cafes, and convenience stores. Despite some businesses surviving for 10 to 20 years, they struggle with high rent costs, making it difficult for them to remain profitable.
Investment Details and Timeline
Ayala Vázquez mentioned that the renovation plans will commence in the second half of the year. The investment amount and specific locations have not been disclosed to avoid complications. He expressed confidence in the projects’ success, stating that developers aim for 100% occupancy of these new commercial spaces.
The Instituto Nacional de Antropología e Historia (INAH) must also grant permissions for these projects, as the properties are located within Puebla’s Historic Center.
Impact on Local Businesses
Ayala Vázquez hopes that the new commercial spaces will exert pressure on real estate agents driving up rent costs. He emphasized that the creation of more local businesses will encourage established enterprises to return and provide affordable rental options for those seeking lower costs.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the main goal of these investments? The primary objective is to transform six properties into small commercial plazas, attracting businesses that left due to inadequate spaces and high rent costs.
- Who is José Juan Ayala Vázquez and why is he relevant? José Juan Ayala Vázquez is the president of the Consejo de Comerciantes del Centro Histórico, representing local businesses in Puebla’s Historic Center. His role is essential in advocating for the interests of these businesses and improving the commercial environment.
- What challenges have businesses in Puebla’s Historic Center faced? Businesses have struggled with rising rent costs, insufficient services like electricity and parking, and the departure of long-standing enterprises due to unaffordable rents.
- When will the renovation projects begin? The renovation plans are set to start in the second half of the year.
- What is the expected outcome of these investments? The creation of around 400 local businesses, the highest number in the past three years, is anticipated, along with improved commercial spaces that should encourage businesses to return.
