By Molly Grace

Copyright euroweeklynews

Several long-standing small businesses in Benijófar have recently shut their doors, sparking concern among residents and traders who say that rising costs and government pressures are making it nearly impossible to stay afloat.

Locals report that cafés, restaurants, and specialist food shops have been closing one after another, unable to meet mounting monthly expenses. “Running a business here has become unsustainable,” said Carlos Martín, a local resident, noting that the cost of electricity, rent, and social security payments can easily exceed €350 a month before other overheads. “Even before you sell a single item, you’re already deep in the red.”

The closures, residents say, reflect the broader challenges faced by small entrepreneurs across Spain, where inflation and rising supplier costs have squeezed profit margins. For many, even minor price increases on essentials such as power or packaging can be the difference between staying open or shutting down.

Support for local trade waning

Several residents expressed frustration that large supermarket chains are drawing customers away from independent shops. Some argue that supporting local traders could help stabilise the market and encourage fairer pricing. Carlos adds, “If people continue shopping at Mercadona or Aldi, small shops don’t stand a chance,” mentions Laura Bennett, who runs a nearby boutique. “We need to back our community businesses, or they’ll disappear.”

Others pointed out that inconsistent opening hours and a lack of parking have also contributed to the decline of some establishments. “You can’t expect to survive if you only open two days a week, still, it’s sad to see another good place go.”

A changing town centre

The closures have left noticeable gaps across Benijófar’s high street, where once-bustling eateries and takeaway shops now sit empty. Many fear that without greater community support or government relief, the town could lose much of its local charm and entrepreneurial spirit.

“It’s heartbreaking,” said Laura. “These were friendly people who worked hard. Now the lights are going out one by one.”

Local associations have urged residents to shop locally and called on the municipal council to explore ways of easing the tax and licensing burden on small traders. Whether such measures come in time remains uncertain, but for many in Benijófar, the hope is that the remaining family-run shops will weather the storm long enough for better days to return.