Several entrepreneurs have closed their stores in the "Lotos" shopping center located in the Nizami district of Baku.
Medianews.az reports, citing "Azad Azerbaijan" TV, that the reason for the store closures is claimed to be the increase in monthly rental fees.
One of the entrepreneurs complaining about the situation explained the stagnation as follows: "Trade is very weak. Previously, there was trade, and rent was covered. Now that there is 'Temu' and 'Trendyol', trade has died."
Another entrepreneur emphasized a sharp decline in their income: "It is terribly weak. During the day, we only make 30-50 manat worth of sales. We absolutely cannot cover the rent. Payments have not increased; we just cannot operate."
Regarding the issue, Ilkin Abbasov, an employee of the "Lotos" shopping center, stated that negotiations have already been held with several entrepreneurs who did not open their stores yesterday:
"There has been no price increase for six years at the 'Lotos' shopping center. As soon as the information was received, we met with the entrepreneurs and exchanged views with them. As the 'Lotos' shopping center, we will strive to provide all possible support to entrepreneurs in the future as well."
Ilkin Abbasov also mentioned that currently all stores continue their operations.