Commerce & Services Greece

Major national chains

 

- Sklavenitis: One of the largest and most popular supermarket chains; has over 400 stores; offers a wide range of products, including fresh vegetables and fruits, meat products, and traditional Greek products.

  

- AB Vassilopoulos: Has more than 300 stores in different formats—from large hypermarkets to neighborhood stores; offers a wide range of high-quality goods, including fresh and organic products.

 

- Masoutis: Popular in the northern part of Greece; has over 330 stores; focuses on fresh products, supporting local producers, and special customer service; offers a selection of products for people with special dietary preferences.

 

International chains and discounters

 

- Lidl: A German discount supermarket chain; offers a wide range of affordable products and goods.

 

Local stores and markets

 

- Local neighborhood stores: In small towns and villages, local neighborhood stores are often found, offering fresh products, baked goods, and basic household items. These stores usually operate from morning till evening and often close for a siesta.

  

- Markets: Traditional markets operate once a week in most localities and offer seasonal fruits and vegetables, local delicacies, and fresh seafood. Here you can often find products not available in supermarkets and buy goods directly from farmers.

 

Hypermarkets and specialized shopping centers

 

In Greece, there are not many hypermarkets in the classic format, but in large cities such as Athens and Thessaloniki, there are large supermarkets like AB Vassilopoulos and Sklavenitis that function as hypermarkets, offering not only food but also household appliances, clothing, home goods, and cosmetics.

Skroutz.gr: The most popular price comparison and shopping platform in Greece, bringing together thousands of sellers; offers a wide range of products—from electronics and home appliances to fashion and cosmetics.

BestPrice.gr: A price comparison platform that helps shoppers choose products at the best prices; covers numerous categories, including electronics, home goods, clothing, and accessories.

Public.gr: One of the largest online stores in Greece; offers a wide range of products—electronics, books, toys, household appliances, and much more. Public.gr also has physical stores for order pickups.

Plaisio.gr: A store known for its wide selection of electronics, office supplies, home goods, and stationery.

 

FactoryOutlet.gr: One of the most well-known online stores for clothing and accessories; offers branded clothing at reduced prices and collaborates with both local and international brands.

Zara, H&M, Mango: These international brands have localized Greek websites, allowing customers to order clothing and accessories online.

MediaMarkt.gr: A European electronics retailer widely represented in Greece.

Kotsovolos.gr: A leading online store for household appliances and electronics.

AB Vassilopoulos eMarket: The AB Vassilopoulos supermarket chain offers online orders of groceries and essentials.

e-Fresh.gr: An online supermarket specializing in the delivery of fresh products and household goods; offers a wide range of products, including meat, vegetables, dairy products, and household chemicals.

Moustakastoys.gr: One of the largest online toy stores in Greece; has physical stores for order pickup.

ToyCity.gr: An online store focusing on toys and children's products.

State postal service – ELTA

The main state postal service of Greece, providing delivery services for letters, parcels, and small packages both domestically and internationally. In addition to standard mail, it also offers financial services, including payment of utility bills and cash on delivery services.

- Network of branches: Branches are widely represented across the country, including small towns and remote islands. Most branches operate from Monday to Friday, usually from 8:00 to 14:00. In large cities, some branches operate longer hours and are open on Saturdays.

 

Private Postal and Courier Services

- ACS Courier: A major player in the market, offering both domestic and international shipments with tracking and quick delivery options.

- Speedex: A popular courier service specializing in domestic delivery.

- DHL, UPS, FedEx: International courier services widely represented in Greece. They provide high-quality express delivery services for overseas shipments and have an extensive network of pickup points.

 

Delivery Features to Remote Regions and Islands

- Delivery Times: Shipping to islands and remote areas in Greece can take longer than to the mainland. Even standard domestic delivery can take up to 7 business days.

- Cost: There may be additional charges for delivery to islands or hard-to-reach regions. Private companies sometimes offer special rates for delivery to such zones.

- Hybrid Delivery Options: Some services cooperate with local carriers on the islands to ensure delivery to the most remote areas.

 

Parcel Shipping and Receiving

- Parcel Tracking: Postal and courier companies provide online tracking systems for shipments.

- Mailboxes and Addresses: In apartment buildings in Greece, shared mailboxes are often used, and parcel delivery is made to the home address. If the recipient is not at home, a notice is left for pickup.

- Pickup Points: Many courier companies offer the option of collecting parcels at the nearest branch. This is convenient for those who prefer to pick up the parcel at a convenient time.

 

Additional Services

Cash on Delivery Services: Cash on delivery is popular in Greece. Postal and courier services provide this service, allowing orders to be paid in cash upon receipt.

Main Telecommunication Providers

COSMOTE: The largest mobile operator and internet provider in Greece; offers a full range of telecommunication services, including mobile and landline, internet, and television.

Vodafone Greece: The second-largest operator; offers mobile, landline internet, and digital TV packages.

Wind Hellas: The third major player in the market; provides mobile and landline services, as well as internet and television.

Nova: Offers a variety of TV packages and internet services at competitive prices, and specializes in providing entertainment content, including sports channels.

 

Internet Services

- Connection Types: In major cities such as Athens and Thessaloniki, fiber-optic and high-speed connections are common, providing speeds up to 100-200 Mbps. In rural areas, slower ADSL connections or 4G/5G internet is available.

- Mobile Internet: 4G networks are widely available in Greece, and 5G coverage is actively developing, especially in major cities.

 

Mobile Communication

Prepaid and Postpaid Plans: Prepaid SIM cards are available in Greece, which is convenient for tourists and temporary residents. These plans can be easily topped up and configured through operators' apps. Postpaid plans are more advantageous for permanent residents as they include lower rates for calls and data.

- Roaming and International Calls: All major operators provide favorable conditions for EU roaming, allowing the use of domestic plans within the EU without additional charges. Special international call packages are available for calls outside the EU.

 

Service Features and Additional Services

- Service and Support: All major operators offer customer support through call centers, apps, and online chats. On the companies' websites, you can quickly change a plan or activate additional services.

- Online Payments and Service Management: Most companies have convenient mobile apps and websites for bill payments, balance top-ups, and service tracking. This is especially convenient for prepaid users and those who regularly recharge internet packages.

- Switching Between Operators: The process of changing operators in Greece is simplified, and users can easily transfer their numbers to a new operator, ensuring competitive market conditions.

Restaurant food delivery

efood: The most popular food delivery service in Greece; offers a wide selection of restaurants, cafes, and fast food, ranging from local taverns to major international chains like McDonald's and KFC.

Wolt: A Finnish platform actively operating in major Greek cities such as Athens and Thessaloniki; Wolt partners include many premium restaurants and cafes, making it a popular choice for those seeking quality and fast delivery.

Box (Cosmote): A service from telecommunications company COSMOTE, offering food and grocery delivery from restaurants and stores; available in major cities and offers a wide choice of dishes, including national and international cuisines.

Volt: Provides a wide range of restaurants and cafes; offers users bonus programs and discounts on regular orders.

 

Grocery and essential goods delivery services

AB Vassilopoulos eMarket: The supermarket chain AB Vassilopoulos, one of the largest in Greece, offers home delivery of groceries through its online platform. The range includes fresh produce, essentials, and even prepared meals.

e-Fresh.gr: An online supermarket specializing in the delivery of groceries and household goods. e-Fresh offers a large assortment, including meat, fish, vegetables, fruits, and household chemicals. Delivery is mainly available in Athens and its surroundings, as well as in other densely populated areas.

Sklavenitis Home Delivery: The Sklavenitis supermarket chain also provides a home delivery service. It is available through the official website and includes goods from all categories, from groceries to household items.

Platforms for various goods delivery

Box Now: A new goods delivery service focusing on fast delivery at a good price. Box Now offers the possibility of ordering from various product categories, including household appliances, electronics, and home goods.

Instashop: An app for delivering goods from supermarkets, pharmacies, and cosmetics stores.

Options for regular orders: In major cities and tourist areas, services offer the possibility of regular orders with fast delivery, which is especially convenient for extended stays in the country.

In Greece, the operating hours of shops and services can vary depending on the type of establishment, region, and day of the week. The country practices a "siesta," which affects the schedule, especially in warm weather.

General schedule of shops

- Weekdays (Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday): Most shops open from 9:00 to 14:30, then close for a lunch break and remain closed in the afternoon. This schedule is most typical for small shops and local services.

- Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: On these days, shops operate in two shifts: from 9:00 to 14:30, then after the siesta open from 17:00 to 21:00. This mode is more common among city and suburban stores, especially in tourist areas.

- Sunday: Most shops are closed on Sunday, except for some shopping centers and supermarkets located in tourist areas, as well as during sale seasons and holidays, when extended hours may apply.

 

Supermarkets and large chains

- Supermarkets: Supermarket chains usually operate from Monday to Saturday, from 8:00 to 20:00. Some stores in major cities or tourist areas may operate until 21:00 and also be open on Sundays.

- Shopping malls and hypermarkets: Large shopping centers, such as The Mall Athens and Mediterranean Cosmos, usually operate from 10:00 to 21:00 from Monday to Saturday. On Sundays, most stores in these complexes are closed, but restaurants, cafes, and entertainment venues (such as cinemas) remain open.

 

Traditional markets and farmers' shops

Markets usually operate once or twice a week in each area. Hours vary by location but are generally from 6:00 to 14:00. 

Farmers' shops and small grocery stores in small towns and rural areas often operate from 8:00 to 14:00 and may reopen from 17:00 to 20:00. They are generally closed on Sunday.

 

Pharmacies

- Pharmacy hours: Pharmacies in Greece have special operating hours and often follow a rotation system. Most pharmacies are open from 8:00 to 14:00 on Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday, and from 8:00 to 14:00 and 17:00 to 20:00 on Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday.

- Duty pharmacies: In each area, duty pharmacies operate around the clock or with extended hours, ensuring the availability of medicines at night and on weekends. Information about them is usually published in local newspapers and on municipal websites.

 

Banks

- Bank operating hours: Most banks operate from 8:00 to 14:00 from Monday to Friday. Some branches in major cities may be open until 16:00. On Saturdays and Sundays, banks are usually closed, except for ATMs and online services, which are available around the clock.

- Online and mobile services: All major banks in Greece provide convenient online services, allowing customers to perform transactions regardless of their working hours.

 

Restaurants and cafes

- Restaurant hours: Restaurants and taverns in Greece often operate from 12:00 to 15:00 and then from 19:00 to 24:00, as Greeks prefer to dine late. Some cafes and bars remain open until 2:00 or 3:00 at night.

- Cafes and coffee shops: Cafes usually open early in the morning, from 7:00 or 8:00, and operate until late in the evening, which is convenient for those who want to enjoy coffee and snacks throughout the day.

 

Government institutions and services

- Municipal and government offices: Operate from 8:00 to 14:00 from Monday to Friday. Many services can be handled online, but for personal visits, it is important to consider the limited working hours.

- Post (ELTA): State post offices ELTA are open from 8:00 to 14:00 from Monday to Friday. In major cities, some post offices may operate until 20:00.

Local Greek brands

Fashion and accessories

Folli Follie: A well-known brand offering jewelry, watches, and accessories that combine modern design with Greek aesthetics.

Zeus+Dione: A premium clothing and accessories brand inspired by Greek heritage and crafts.

Ancient Greek Sandals: A manufacturer of handmade sandals reflecting traditional Greek style.

 

Food and beverages

Loumidis: A popular Greek coffee brand known for its traditional taste.

Mythos, Fix, Alpha: Major brewing companies producing beloved national beer varieties.

Dodoni: A dairy producer, especially famous for its feta cheese and yogurts.

Ion: One of the oldest and most popular chocolate manufacturers in Greece.

 

Supermarkets and retail

AB Vassilopoulos: A major supermarket chain with a wide range of products.

Sklavenitis: One of the largest family-run supermarket chains in the country.

Masoutis: A supermarket chain particularly popular in northern Greece.

 

Electronics and appliances

Plaisio: A leading retailer of electronics, computers, and office equipment.

Kotsovolos: A network of home appliance and electronics stores.

 

International brands in Greece

Fashion and clothing

Zara, Bershka, Pull & Bear: The Spanish group Inditex is widely represented in Greece.

H&M: The Swedish fashion retailer has stores in major cities.

Mango: Offers modern clothing for men and women.

Nike, Adidas, Puma: International sports brands with flagship stores.

 

Retail and supermarkets

Lidl: A German discount supermarket chain with a wide presence.

IKEA: The Swedish furniture and home goods giant.

Decathlon: A French sporting goods store chain.

 

Electronics and technology

MediaMarkt: A European electronics store chain.

Apple: Official resellers and service centers are present in major cities.

Samsung: Products are available through official dealers and partners.

 

Cosmetics and perfumery

Sephora: An international network of cosmetic stores with a wide assortment of brands.

Hondos Center: Although it's a Greek network, it offers many international cosmetic brands.

 

Restaurants and cafes

McDonald's, KFC, Pizza Hut: International fast food chains present in tourist areas and major cities.

Starbucks: Coffee shops located in Athens, Thessaloniki, and other cities.

 

Transport and logistics

- Beat: A Greek taxi-ordering application, formerly known as Taxibeat.

- Uber: Present in limited regions, collaborating with licensed drivers.

 

Thus, Greece offers a variety of local and international brands in all areas of trade and services. Whether you are looking for traditional Greek products or familiar international brands, Greece is ready to meet any needs.

Understanding local traditions and customs will help you adapt more easily to life in Greece and make the shopping process pleasant and efficient.

Interaction with staff

- Greetings: When entering a store, it is customary to greet the salespeople. Use phrases like "Καλημέρα" (kalimera) — good morning, "Καλησπέρα" (kalispera) — good evening.

- Forms of address: Address others with "you" ("εσείς") to show respect, especially with elderly people and strangers.

- Politeness: Greeks value friendliness and openness. A smile and polite attitude contribute to better service.

 

Payment and currencies

- Cash: Although bank cards are widely accepted, small shops and markets prefer cash.

- Tips: Tips are not required in shops. In restaurants and cafes, it is common to leave a tip of 5-10% of the bill amount.

- Large purchases: For large payments, identification may be required in compliance with local laws.

 

Bargaining and negotiation

- Markets and bazaars: It is customary to negotiate at local markets. It is a part of the culture and can help save money.

- Fixed prices: In supermarkets and large stores, prices are usually fixed, and bargaining is inappropriate.

- Friendly approach: Negotiate with a smile and respect. Aggressive behavior is not welcomed.

 

Product range features

- Local products: Pay attention to local goods — olive oil, feta cheese, honey, and wines are renowned for their quality.

- Seasonality: Some products are available only in certain seasons, reflecting the preference for fresh and natural goods.

 

Attitude towards time

- Unhurriedness: Greek culture is more relaxed about time. Be prepared for services to take longer.

- Patience: Exercise patience and understanding, especially during rush hour or tourist season.

 

Language and communication

- English: In tourist areas, staff usually speak English. In less popular areas, knowing basic phrases in Greek will be helpful.

- Gestures and expressions: Greeks actively use gestures. Be attentive, as some gestures may have different meanings than in your country.

 

Fitting room etiquette and product returns

- Fitting rooms: In boutiques and clothing stores, ask for permission before entering the fitting room.

- Returns and exchanges: Check the store's policy on returns and exchanges. Some stores may not accept items back without a good reason.

Thus, respecting local customs and being open to new cultural experiences will make your shopping in Greece pleasant and productive. Enjoy the opportunity to get to know the rich culture and traditions of this hospitable country.

Winter sales

- Start and end: Winter sales begin in the second week of January and last until the end of February. This period coincides with the beginning of the new year and the end of the holiday season.

  - Discount levels: At the start of the season, discounts may range from 20% to 30%, and by the end of the sales, prices are reduced by 50-70%. This is a good time to buy winter clothes, shoes, and items that will be in less demand in spring.

 

Summer sales

- Start and end: Summer sales begin in the first half of July and continue until the end of August. This is one of the most popular sales seasons in Greece, as it coincides with the tourist peak.

- Discount levels: As in winter, discounts start at 20-30% at the beginning of the season and reach 50-70% by its end. The end of August is the best time for bargain purchases on remaining summer collections.

Interseasonal sales

In Greece, there are also intermediate sales in spring and autumn, providing an opportunity for those who missed the main seasons to enjoy discounts.

- Spring sale: Held in early May, lasting one to two weeks. It's a good chance to buy mid-season items at reduced prices.

  - Autumn sale: Occurs in early November, lasting one to two weeks. It offers discounts on fall collections, footwear, clothing, and other items relevant for the cold season.

 

Black Friday and Cyber Monday

- Black Friday: Like in other countries, Black Friday in Greece takes place on the last Friday of November. On this day, discounts can reach 50-80% on a wide range of products, especially electronics, appliances, and clothing.

- Cyber Monday: The Monday after Black Friday is a day of significant discounts on online platforms. Stores like Skroutz and e-shop.gr offer great deals for online shopping.

Christmas and Pre-New Year Discounts

- Start and End: In December, a few weeks before Christmas and New Year, many stores begin offering discounts, especially on holiday goods, gifts, toys, and decorations.

- Discount Level: Discounts range from 20% to 40% on holiday goods and clothing.

Overall Waste Disposal System Structure

- Municipal Services: Waste disposal and recycling are conducted at the municipal level. Each city and locality has a waste collection and transportation service that organizes regular garbage removal and directs it to recycling or landfill.

- Regional Recycling Centers: In large cities like Athens and Thessaloniki, there are modern recycling centers that process and sort waste for further recycling. Regional centers accept plastic, paper, glass, and metals.

 

Separate Waste Collection System

In Greece, separate waste collection is actively promoted, especially in large settlements and tourist areas where infrastructure is better developed. Waste bins differ in color, helping residents sort correctly:

- Blue Bins: Used for recyclable waste, such as plastic bottles, paper, aluminum cans, and glass bottles. The blue container is intended for all types of recyclable materials.

- Green Bins: Designed for regular household waste that is not recyclable. The contents of these containers are sent to landfills or disposal centers.

- Grey Bins and Containers for Organic Waste (in some areas): Used for organic and food waste. Although not widespread, such containers are supported in large cities and tourist areas, helping to reduce landfill waste.

 

Recycling and Disposal of Special Waste Categories

- Electronic and Electrical Waste: There are special collection points for disposing of old appliances, batteries, and electronic devices. Some municipalities also organize electronic waste collection days, during which devices can be turned in for recycling for free.

- Batteries and Bulbs: Containers for collecting used batteries and bulbs are installed throughout Greece, located in supermarkets, schools, and public places.

- Hazardous Waste: Some types of waste, such as chemicals, paints, and medical waste, require special handling. Collection and disposal are handled by specialized companies and are not suitable for general containers.

 

 Penalty and Incentive System

- Fines for Violations: Fines are implemented in Greece for individuals and organizations that do not comply with separate collection rules or dump waste in unauthorized locations. Such measures encourage more responsible waste management.

- Incentives and Discounts: Some municipalities offer discounts on utilities or incentive programs for citizens actively participating in recycling and responsible waste use programs.