Queviures Murria, an emblematic store located in the Eixample, has placed a sign on the door warning the curious that they will be charged a supplement of five euros if they enter without the intention of buying something.
The historic Barcelona store has decided to take measures to combat the influx of tourists who enter the store without the intention of making purchases.
This proposal, which has been implemented recently, has been a great success according to Toni Merino, the store manager. The sign is written in English in order to dissuade tourists who, beyond shopping, just want to browse.
Since the sign was placed at the entrance, a change in visitor behavior has been observed and now those who enter at least buy something before leaving.
Queviures Murria has more than 125 years of history in the city of Barcelona. Over the years, it has managed to maintain its charm and resist tourist overcrowding.
However, in recent times, the increase in tourists has led to uncomfortable situations both for customers wishing to shop and for those enjoying their lunch in the establishment.
Many tourists have begun to enter the store as if it were just another monument in the city, without showing any interest in acquiring products.
The objective of Queviures Murria’s measure
It is not to raise funds, but rather to dissuade tourists from entering the establishment without the intention of buying. Joan Murria, the owner of Queviures Murria, has explained that if someone enters the premises, says hello and asks permission to take a photo, they will be welcome.
However, the general norm of tourists entering the establishment with no intention of buying was creating discomfort for both customers and staff.
Queviures Murria is not the only business that has taken measures to control the influx of tourists who are only looking to browse.
Other emblematic establishments in the city have also experienced similar situations. In some cases, tourists enter accompanied by a guide, which further aggravates the situation.
About local commerce in the city
Local commerce is an important component of a city’s identity and it is understandable that owners of historic establishments want to preserve their authenticity and ensure a pleasant experience for their customers.
The measures taken by Queviures Murria seek to strike a balance between welcoming visitors interested in shopping and discouraging those who are just looking for a quick souvenir with no intention of contributing to local commerce.
Queviures Murria seeks to preserve authenticity and ensure a pleasant experience for customers who do wish to shop.
