Over a million grocery stores in Mexico are preparing for the increase in consumption that the World Cup will generate in the country, although the sector still faces challenges in digitalization, financing, informality, and competition with large chains and mini-markets, Pedro Fernández told EFE in an interview. The partner and general director of Expo Tendero explained that these neighborhood stores, which supply basic products and food in the country's neighborhoods and communities, add up to nearly one million establishments and represent about 7% of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP), in addition to concentrating approximately 45% of the sales of basic consumer goods. Fernández pointed out that each business serves an average of 50 recurring customers, which implies an estimated coverage of over 50 million Mexicans under this commerce model. The leader expects the World Cup to especially boost the sale of fast-moving products such as soft drinks, snacks, bread, beer, and cigarettes, which are typically consumed during match broadcasts and family gatherings. "Of course, it is a great opportunity for sales growth for the entire industry," he noted. However, Fernández warned that many of these stores still present technological gaps. In numerous cases, they lack Point of Sale systems to manage inventories or terminals to accept card payments, make phone top-ups, or pay for services. As he explained, the main obstacle is not the merchants' lack of interest, but the available time to get trained or handle paperwork, since many shopkeepers spend up to 15 hours a day attending to their businesses. The lack of formalization also limits access to the financial system, making it difficult to obtain microcredits or adopt tools that could improve their income. In this sense, Fernández stated that stores that incorporate card payment terminals usually increase their sales by 20% to 25%. Additionally, the sector faces growing competition from convenience store chains such as OXXO, 7-Eleven, and Circle K, although the traditional channel still has a strong presence in many areas of the country. In this context, the Expo Tendero event seeks to connect small merchants with suppliers, financial institutions, and technological solutions that allow them to strengthen their businesses in the face of the expected increase in consumption. The fifth edition of the meeting in the Valley of Mexico will be held on April 28 and 29 at the World Trade Center Ciudad de México, with free admission for interested shopkeepers.
