Decline in Sales in Puerto Banus Due to ‘Cheap’ Tourists and Crime, Claim Local Workers
Local workers in the upscale Puerto Banus have reported a significant drop in sales, attributing the decline to an influx of ‘cheap’ tourists and a rise in crime. Employees in designer stores have expressed their dissatisfaction with this year’s visitors, describing them as ‘low quality’ who tend to ‘look more and buy less.’
Call for Government Intervention to Improve the Port’s Image
In a conversation with Malaga Hoy, the workers urged the local government to take measures to improve the port’s image and introduce new events to attract more families. Nawar Ahmat, a sales assistant at Versace, stated that Banus is not a family-friendly place at night due to the prevalence of drugs, prostitution, and fights.
Drop in Economic Level in Puerto Banus
Maria Jose Minguez, a shop assistant at designer outlet Elices, noted that the economic level in Puerto Banus has declined, with the area now dominated by bars and cars. Ruben, an employee at the clothing store Own Style, echoed these sentiments, stating that while there are many people, they are not spending as much as in previous years.
Change in Tourist Profile Affecting Sales
Ruben further noted that the profile of tourists has changed, with many now asking for discounts and spending more time looking than buying. Fatima Chantal, an outlet worker, expressed concern that the port’s atmosphere, characterized by ‘naked women on the street’, is damaging the image of family tourism, particularly among wealthy Arabs. She estimated that the area has lost up to 20% of its high-paying clientele this year.
Marbella’s Reputation Suffers Due to Crime and Counterfeit Luxury Brands
An anonymous business owner complained about the ‘cheap’ and ‘low level’ visitors, stating that they often ask for discounts. He argued that Marbella’s reputation is being tarnished by thefts, beggars, pickpockets, cheap prostitution, and counterfeit luxury brands, predicting a 30% drop in his sales this year.
Some Stores Report Increase in Sales
Despite the overall negative outlook, the Loro Piana store reported a 25-30% increase in sales this year. An employee named Concha stated that the port is filled with Arabs, as is typical every summer, and that there is a strong desire to spend.
