Before the onset of the pandemic and when all stores were still open, the average transaction or ‘purchase receipt’ across all establishments in Sitges was 41 euros. A year later, it stands at 29 euros – 29% less. Provided by Banco Sabadell, the data is based on a study of card transactions from different businesses across the town.
The data corresponds to the average purchase receipt, not to the total business turnover, which in some sectors – especially those related to tourism and events – is significantly lower.
For example, average hotel spending is now at 95 euros, whereas this time last year it stood at 129 euros. In other words, hotel prices have dropped significantly in the last 12 months. However, if the total billing for the first week of March 2021 was calculated compared to last year, the difference would be abysmal, since most establishments have closed due to the pandemic.
Restaurants in Sitges are also suffering a notable decrease in spending, in great part because of the Coronavirus perimeter closure. Restricted travel has prevented weekend visitors – people who tended to spend above the pre-pandemic average during their time in the coastal town.
On the other hand, intake across local bars has risen slightly from last year. The reason for this is partly attributed to the fact that some bars are now providing a partial restaurant function.
The taxi sector has suffered most from the crisis – with average spending showing a 50% decrease on last year. This is due to regional closures which have prevented vehicles from making trips to and from Barcelona and above all, the airport, which is where the sector had its highest intake margins.
A sharp decline in spending has also been noted in the clothing sector.
On the contrary, food sales have experienced a significant increase. So far this month, figures have shown a 25% sales increase in comparison to the beginning of March last year – before the state of alarm and national confinement due to the pandemic began. Sales of health products have also been on the rise, with data showing a 17% increase in comparison to this time last year.
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