Municipal markets have always been places of interest because, among other things, they reflect in a few square meters the essence of a town. Typical products, neighbors of the place, conversations and expressions ... There is nothing like a market to know the character of a town and its people.
Unfortunately, not a few markets have fallen into disuse and abandonment. The new generations have changed their consumption habits. They do not usually do their shopping in the mornings during the week, as it used to happen a few decades ago. For couples and young families (who now prefer to live in urbanizations on the outskirts of cities) the center of town, where most markets are located, is not as accessible as shopping centers.
Given this widespread trend, what can a market do to survive? They certainly have a powerful weapon: the quality of their products and the close treatment of sellers. But it's not enough. What else is needed? Some have chosen wisely to break the tradition and also open in the afternoons and weekends. Why not? Personally I do not have time to buy in the morning since I work and positions to choose ... I would prefer to buy freshly caught fish in the afternoon and not have to wait in the morning of the next day.
Other markets have reinvented. They continue to offer their fresh and typical products at affordable prices, but ... and here is the secret: they have added the possibility of consuming them right there at the stand.
If you are visiting Madrid, I advise you to visit the San Miguel market next to the Plaza Mayor, or the San Antón market in the Chueca neighborhood. These were abandoned markets that are now consumption centers at the highest level. After a reform and improvement of the facilities, these markets have been able to attract new generations and a multitude of tourists. The secret: they are Gourmet markets. Each position is specialized in a product and offers small portions, tapas or dishes, to be consumed right there. They have created a new experience in a traditional environment. And believe me, go from tapas to a market in one place after another, with the possibility at the same time to do something of the purchase, and do this indoors protected from the heat or the cold, but in a spacious and traditional place, it is a luxury option.
Some traders with initiative have already taken the first steps. That's why I think we should applaud his effort. If you visit the Mercat de Denia do not stop approaching these new positions. They offer you quality products, a close treatment and at the same time some great tapas. I hope that others continue on this path, because unfortunately there are some positions that are transferred or that have been closed for a while.
Yes, as we said at the beginning, a market reflects well the character of a people. Why will they let these new initiatives go forward? Will the will of the usual be imposed, stifling the illusion and desire to innovate of those who also have the right to open a gap in the monopolized sector of the commerce of the peoples? For the time being, I am happy to know that in my town, judging by what I see in my market, the bourgeois monopoly has its days numbered.
Gentlemen, if at the end everything is summarized with the famous phrase: renew or die. I hope you find in this commentary a recipe that will help you keep cooking good ideas.
Botafuegos
