OPEN ALL HOURS

A rainy day in Palma with thousands of people taking part in the marathon. Unfortunately, there was just one thing missing - all the shops were closed. It is incredible that shops do not coincide their opening hours with major events which happen on a Sunday, such as the marathon or even the visit of a major cruise ship. Shopkeepers are already moaning about the summer season and that takings have fallen.

Is anyone really surprised? Small shopkeepers are going to have to get their act together as a result of the recession and also because the Balearic government has recently lifted the ban on the opening of new stores. Already new supermarkets are due to open and clothing stores are expected to follow. Shopkeepers should be considering opening more and trying to make a greater effort. I thought the Thursday Night Fever, extended opening hours was a very good idea and it is a great pity that it is not extended to the winter period. Palma could be a real shopping paradise if only shopkeepers showed a bit more forward thinking. On Saturday afternoon I walked down the Jaime III only to find that some shops were already closed. The time has come for a different approach, otherwise things are going to get worse rather than better.