Marbella Weather

Luxury Fashion Retailers in Puerto Banus Witness Summer Sales Slump: Budget Tourists, Crime, and Prostitution Finger

December 31, 2023
Luxury Fashion Retailers in Puerto Banus Witness Summer Sales Slump: Budget Tourists, Crime, and Prostitution Finger - marbella adobestock 210469790 scaled 1 - Business and Economy -

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.

Don't Miss

Stunning San Pedro Bus Station Still Awaiting Significant Progress! - mini1 1715706330 - Business and Economy -

Stunning San Pedro Bus Station Still Awaiting Significant Progress!

San Pedro Bus Station still lacks significant progress, leaving many
Discover Marbella's Best Local Eateries for Authentic Andalusian Cuisine - 453889914 1026582585805297 6482492035194960509 n 1 - Business and Economy -

Discover Marbella’s Best Local Eateries for Authentic Andalusian Cuisine

Explore Marbella's top spots for traditional Andalusian dishes, showcasing fresh