Roberto Boscolo, president of wholesalers at Maap, reported how the current climate is slowing down trade.
"Markets all over Italy have slowed down over the past 25 years as the retail chain has grown, but the fault is mainly ours as we have not taken suitable countermeasures. I think we can still do something, but we must be quick."
Outside view of Maap
Boscolo, which has become the president of wholesalers just a few months ago, treasures the experience of the first lockdown. "Consumers preferred corner shops, home deliveries and street vendors, a sign that a return to high-quality products and reasoned purchases is still possible. As president, I will try to promote this category, which represents the final link when it comes to high-quality products at good prices."
Archive photo of Maap
Boscolo does not agree with the decision of opening supermarkets on Sundays also during this period of crisis. Sunday closures would be an advantage to all, even to retailers themselves, as sometimes they open only not to be outdone by the competition, but they displease employees and penalize small traders in doing so.
"Exports of most of our wholesalers dropped by around 20% during the first lockdown, which though was compensated by an increase in purchases from shops and street vendors. Now things are different, as exports are diminishing but the traditional channel is not making up for the losses."
"Promoting small shops helps not only wholesale markets, but the entire social fabric."