Commerce & Services Cyprus

Cyprus has a wide range of supermarkets and hypermarkets offering a variety of goods and services for both locals and immigrants.

AlphaMega Hypermarkets: One of the largest Cypriot hypermarket chains, offering a wide range of groceries, household chemicals, and home goods.

Sklavenitis: Originally the French chain Carrefour was present in Cyprus since 2005. In 2017, it was acquired by the Greek company Sklavenitis. The stores offer a range of products, including fresh pastries, ready meals, and home goods.

Lidl: A German supermarket chain, known for its competitive prices and quality products.

METRO: METRO supermarkets offer a wide range of groceries and everyday products at competitive prices.

Papantoniou Supermarkets: This supermarket chain is located in the western part of Cyprus and offers about 80,000 items including food, clothing, and goods for home and garden.

MAS Supermarkets: The largest supermarket chain in Cyprus by the number of stores, founded in 1996. The network includes more than 50 independent supermarkets across the island, offering a wide range of products at competitive prices.

Smart Discount Shops: The chain offers a variety of products at discounted prices, including groceries, household chemicals, and seasonal items.

Plus Discount Market: A supermarket chain offering a wide range of goods at affordable prices, including fresh produce, meat, fruits, and vegetables.

Stephanis: The largest electronics retail chain in Cyprus, offering a wide range of products, including smartphones, TVs, laptops, gaming consoles, and home appliances.

Alphamega Hypermarkets: One of the leading supermarket chains in Cyprus, offering an online platform for ordering groceries and everyday items.

Zipy: An online platform providing access to products from the largest global marketplaces, such as eBay, Amazon, AliExpress, and ASOS; supports various payment methods, including Bitcoin.

Ppissis.com.cy: A website that allows price comparisons for goods from different online stores in Cyprus, including electronics, furniture, clothing, and more; also provides information on fuel prices and discounted groceries.

Berёzka Store & Cuisine: Specializes in delivering groceries and ready meals throughout Cyprus; offers a variety of products, including those from Eastern Europe.

Arménius: Offers a wide range of electronics, including laptops, desktops, smartphones, tablets, and gadgets.

OnCyprus.com: An online catalog containing information about various online stores in Cyprus; provides access to a wide range of products and services, including electronics, clothing, accessories, and much more.

The postal service of the Republic of Cyprus, known as Cyprus Post, provides a wide range of services for residents and visitors of the island.

Main postal services

Written correspondence: Cyprus Post offers an economical way to send personal and business correspondence both domestically and internationally. Hundreds of postboxes are installed across the island, and the network includes 51 post offices and over 1000 rural agencies. Collection and delivery of mail are conducted 5 times a week.

Packages: Parcel delivery services are available with various rates and delivery times, including priority and standard options.

PO Box rental: Cyprus Post offers private PO Box rental, providing a permanent postal address with 24/7 access.

Financial services: Include money transfers through MoneyGram and postal orders.

Courier services

EMS Datapost: An international courier service ensuring fast and secure delivery of documents, goods, and commercial samples to more than 128 countries.

PostExpress Local Courier: In collaboration with Kronos Express, Cyprus Post offers a local courier service with same-day delivery. The network comprises more than 60 service points and covers 82 rural communities daily, catering to both corporate and private clients.

Modern technology and online services

Parcel24: A service of automated mailboxes, allowing the receipt of packages at any time. Subscription available with a choice of a convenient pickup point from 13 locations across Cyprus.

Shipping Tool/eCustoms: Starting January 1, 2023, the use of this tool for creating labels and customs declarations is mandatory for certain types of shipments. This simplifies the shipping process and ensures compliance with customs requirements.

THALISUPP: A platform that allows recipients to upload necessary documents for customs clearance of postal shipments, speeding up the delivery process.

Other courier services

International shipments: DHL, FedEx, and UPS provide fast and reliable delivery abroad.

Local deliveries: For sending documents and parcels within Cyprus, ACS Courier, Kronos Express, and Akis Express are suitable.

Cyta (Cyprus Telecommunications Authority): the state operator offering a wide range of telecommunications services.

Internet: High-speed access via the Cyta Fiber network with speeds up to 1 Gbps.

Telephony: Fixed and mobile packages with various tariffs.

Television: The Cytavision platform with a variety of channels and packages, including sports and entertainment.

 

Cablenet: One of the leading private telecommunications service providers in Cyprus.

Internet: Own network with access speeds up to 1 Gbps.

Telephony: Fixed and mobile services with competitive tariffs.

Television: Various TV packages with HD channels, including sports and entertainment programs.

 

PrimeTel: A private operator providing a full range of telecommunications services.

Internet: High-speed access through its own fiber-optic network.

Telephony: Fixed and mobile packages with various options.

Television: TV packages with a variety of channels, including sports, entertainment, and children's programs.

 

Epic: Offers mobile communication, internet, and TV services.

Internet: Broadband access with various tariff plans.

Telephony: Mobile and fixed services with diverse packages.

Television: TV services with a choice of channels and packages.

When choosing a telecommunications provider, it is recommended to consider personal needs, compare offers from different companies, and pay attention to contract terms and quality of service.

In Cyprus, there are several popular food and goods delivery services that provide convenient and fast access to a variety of products and services.

Foody: One of the leading delivery services in Cyprus, connecting over 2,800 shops and restaurants across the island; offers delivery of food, groceries, and other goods with the option of cash or card payment.

Wolt: An international delivery service represented in Cyprus, offering a wide selection of restaurants and shops.

Bolt Food: Offers delivery of meals from various restaurants with contactless payment and fast delivery.

Rocket: A food delivery service operating in major cities in Cyprus, such as Nicosia, Limassol, Larnaca, and Paphos.

PameNaFame: An online platform that collaborates with hundreds of restaurants in various cities of Cyprus, such as Limassol, Nicosia, Larnaca, Paphos, and Famagusta.

The opening hours of shops and services in Cyprus depend on the type of establishment, time of year, and location. Below is general information about the working hours of various establishments:

Shops and supermarkets

Regular shops

Winter period (November – March):

Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: 08:00 – 19:30

Wednesday: 08:00 – 15:00

Saturday: 08:00 – 19:00

Sunday: closed

Summer period (April – October): 

Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: 08:00 – 20:00

Wednesday: 08:00 – 15:00

Saturday: 08:00 – 19:30

Sunday: closed

Siesta: In the summer months, from June 15 to the end of August, the lunch break (siesta) can be extended from 14:00 to 17:00.

Supermarkets

Monday – Friday: 08:00 – 20:00

Wednesday: 08:00 – 15:00

Saturday: 08:00 – 19:00

Sunday: closed

Shops marked "Express": Work on an extended schedule, including Wednesday and Sunday.

Shopping malls

Monday – Saturday: 10:00 – 20:00

Sunday: 11:00 – 19:00

Note: The opening hours of individual shops within shopping centers may vary.

Government Institutions

September – June:

Monday – Friday: 07:30 – 14:30

Thursday: 15:00 – 18:00

July – August: 

Monday – Friday: 07:30 – 14:30

Note: Some offices may have longer lunch breaks or shortened schedules during the summer months.

Banks

Monday – Friday: 07:45 – 18:00

Saturday and Sunday: 09:00 – 17:00

Note: Some branches may have individual working schedules.

Pharmacies

Follow the general store schedule.

On-duty pharmacies: Open in the evening hours and on weekends; information about the nearest on-duty pharmacy can be found through special apps or local directories.

Holidays

On official holidays, most stores and institutions are closed.

Some shopping centers, restaurants, and entertainment venues may operate on a reduced schedule.

It is recommended to check business hours in advance during the holiday periods.

Exceptions and Features

Some small shops and kiosks may operate late and on weekends, offering a limited assortment of goods.

Bakeries often operate around the clock and without days off, providing basic food products.

Recommendations

It is recommended to verify the business hours of a specific store or institution before visiting, as they may vary depending on the season, location, and type of establishment.

Pay attention to lunch breaks (siesta) in the summer period, when many establishments close for a few hours during the day.

International Brands

Well-known international brands are widely represented in Cyprus, especially in major shopping centers and on popular shopping streets. Some of them include:

Zara: A Spanish fashion clothing brand offering the latest trends for men, women, and children.

H&M: A Swedish clothing retail chain known for its diverse styles and affordable prices.

Marks & Spencer: A British retailer offering high-quality clothing, food products, and home goods.

Starbucks: An international coffeehouse chain known for its coffee beverages and cozy atmosphere.

McDonald's: An American fast-food restaurant chain offering a wide range of burgers and other meals.

Local Brands

Cyprus prides itself on its local brands that reflect the island's cultural heritage and modern trends. Some of them include:

WHO made this?: The first Cypriot streetwear brand founded by brothers George and Neophytus, offering a unique casual style.

Laiko Cosmos Trading: A major Cypriot company, distributor of more than 170 food and beverage brands, including both local and international labels.

MAS Supermarkets: The largest supermarket chain in Cyprus with 54 stores across the island, offering a wide range of products.

Shopping Features in Cyprus

Assortment: In major cities and shopping centers, there is a wide selection of international and local brands to meet the diverse tastes and needs of consumers.

Prices: Due to low taxes, luxury brand items may be less expensive than in other European countries.

Local products: In addition to branded goods, in Cyprus, it is worth paying attention to local products such as natural cosmetics, wines, olive oil, and artisan goods.

Greetings and Communication

Greetings: Upon entering a shop or a store, it is customary to greet the seller. A common greeting is "Γεια σας," which means "Hello."

Addressing: To older and unfamiliar people, it is customary to address with respect, using "Κύριε" for men and "Κυρία" for women, which correspond to "Sir" and "Madam."

Bargaining and Prices

Fixed prices: In large stores and supermarkets, prices are usually fixed, and bargaining is not customary.

Markets: In local markets and small shops, you can and are even encouraged to bargain. It is part of the culture, and sellers expect buyers to discuss the price.

Payment and Tips

Payment methods: Most places accept cash and bank cards. However, in small stores, it's preferable to have cash on hand.

Tips: In restaurants and cafes, tips typically constitute 5–10% of the bill amount. Tips are not expected in shops.

Queues and Personal Space

Queues: Cypriots usually respect queues, but the concept of personal space may be less pronounced than in some other cultures. Be prepared for people to stand closer than you might be used to.

Respect for Traditions and Religion

Religious holidays: During major religious holidays, such as Easter, many shops and institutions may be closed or operate on a shortened schedule. It is recommended to check business hours in advance during these periods.

Clothing: When visiting religious sites or traditional villages, dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees.

Hospitality and Gifts

Hospitality: Cypriots are known for their warm hospitality. If you are invited to a home, it is customary to bring a small gift, such as sweets or wine.

Refusing Treats: If you are offered a treat, it is polite to accept it, as refusal may be perceived as disrespectful.

Language and Communication

Language: Greek is the main language in Cyprus, but many speak English, especially in tourist areas. Nonetheless, attempting to use a few phrases in Greek will be appreciated and show your respect for the local culture.

Photography

Permission: Before photographing people, especially in rural areas, it is recommended to ask for permission. This is a show of respect for personal space and traditions.

Environmental Aspects

Plastic bags: In some stores, plastic bags may be chargeable. It is recommended to carry a reusable shopping bag, which also supports the island's ecological initiatives.

In Cyprus, there are traditionally two major sales seasons, each lasting for 45 days:

Winter Sales Season

Start: The first Monday of February.

Description: During this period, stores offer significant discounts on winter clothing collections, footwear, and other goods.

Summer Sales Season

Start: July 15th.

Description: This is the time to clear out spring-summer collections and other seasonal items.

Additional Discount Periods

Christmas Sales: Begin after December 26th and continue until New Year's, offering discounts on holiday items and gifts.

Easter Sales: A short discount period before Easter when stores offer special deals on certain categories of goods.

Features of Sales in Cyprus

Discounts: During sales periods, prices can drop by 50–70%, making it an especially attractive time for shoppers.

Assortment: Both clothing and footwear, as well as household appliances, furniture, and other goods, are included in the sales.

In the Republic of Cyprus, the household waste disposal and recycling system is organized in accordance with European standards and aims to protect the environment and public health.

Infrastructure and Recycling Facilities

As part of the strategy, integrated facilities for municipal solid waste management have been established in various areas. These facilities include mechanical sorting, biological treatment, and sanitary landfills for residues. Furthermore, waste transfer stations have been built to optimize transportation.

Waste Sorting and "Green Points"

An important element of the system is "Green Points" — fenced areas with appropriate infrastructure for collecting various types of waste, including electronic and electrical appliances, plastic, paper, glass, and metals. Citizens can freely deposit sorted waste at these points, promoting recycling and reducing landfill volumes.

Citizen Participation

Citizens play a crucial role in the successful implementation of the waste management system. Their participation in waste sorting, use of "Green Points," and compliance with disposal rules enhances recycling efficiency and reduces negative impacts on the environment.