Rising Costs Threaten Greece's Small Businesses

11:47 8/1/2025 - Πηγή: iEfimerida

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Greece are facing a growing threat from rising costs, particularly in the commercial real estate sector, according to Giannis Chatzitheodosiou, President of the Athens Chamber of Tradesmen.

In an interview with ERT, Mr. Chatzitheodosiou warned that 2025 will be a

challenging year for many SMEs as rental agreements expire, leading to potential rent increases that could strain businesses already operating on thin margins.

He highlighted the vital role SMEs play in the Greek economy, emphasizing that they are predominantly family-run businesses that generate wealth within the country.

However, Mr. Chatzitheodosiou expressed concern about the increasing dominance of online platforms and multinational corporations, which are drawing revenue away from smaller businesses.

He also criticized unfair competition from international online platforms, arguing that their practices create an uneven playing field for SMEs.

Mr. Chatzitheodosiou called for European-level regulations to address these imbalances and protect the viability of smaller enterprises.

The interview underscored the urgent need for policy interventions to support SMEs, which form the backbone of the Greek economy.

Without adequate support, there are fears that the continued growth of multinational corporations and online platforms could undermine the economic and social fabric of Greece.

"We need to ensure that SMEs have the resources and support they need to thrive," Mr. Chatzitheodosiou said. "Their survival is crucial for the health of the Greek economy and the well-being of our communities."

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