Larnaca's city centre shows a big difference. Restaurants are doing well. However, shops are having a harder time. This is happening during important city improvement projects. The streets are changing a lot. Many businesses are finding it difficult. Restaurants are busy. Many shops are not.
Last year brought many changes to Larnaca's main shopping area. Two large projects are happening. These projects have changed how people walk around. They also affect how easy it is to reach shops. Dimitris Dimitriou is the head of the shopkeepers' group. He said, "Footfall in shops has been moderate." He thinks this is because of the ongoing building work. Construction problems have stopped many customers from visiting shops.
However, restaurants are doing better. This is especially true in Ermou Square. It is also good along Zinonos Kitieos street. The city projects have helped these places. Festivals organised by the city have brought more people. These events helped everyone. New pavements and places for tables outside have also helped. This has brought more customers to cafes and restaurants.
The work on Ermou Street is now finished. This is good news for shops. It is now easier to get around. Some empty shops might soon have new businesses. This is a positive sign. However, the projects have helped some areas more than others. Some places are still uncertain.
Shopkeepers know they must work hard. They want to attract customers back. Mr. Dimitriou thanked people for their patience. He said, "We are still open and want you to visit." He asked people to support the shops. He believes Larnaca's shops are as good as any others. The shopkeepers' association will start a new plan. In 2026, they will have one event each month. This will try to bring shoppers back to the city centre.
The improvement projects will take more time. Work in Alkis and Acropolis Squares should finish by July 2026. This will affect Gr. Afxentiou Street. All city centre work should be finished by autumn 2026. Shopkeepers hope things will get much better then. They expect their businesses to improve after the work is done. Until then, shopkeepers must be strong and work hard to survive.