A multi-service store can be a crucial establishment for those who live in towns where the population is mostly middle-aged and find it difficult to travel to other cities to be able to buy everything they need. Therefore, keeping the only establishment of this type in operation becomes essential.
This is the case of Cirat, a town in the interior of Castellon where only 223 people live, according to INE data from 2023. There, the only store that has it is about to close. The town hall offers free premises for use as a multi-service store.
Manoli, the owner of the business, is retiring after 40 years behind the counter and although she does not regret having dedicated her life to the store, she believes it is time to look for a replacement. It will be May 6 when the official closure occurs.
The neighbors, most of them elderly, find it difficult to travel to other towns to buy, and they also consider that it is always good to have a store open every day. if you need to make a last minute purchase. “You would have to go to Onda or Montanejos and in the town there are many elderly people who cannot get around,” explains the mayor of Cirat, Pascual Salines, to The Mediterranean Newspaper.
The City Council has wanted to find a solution to this situation. “We want to make it as easy as possible for someone to take the step, a service that cannot be missed”explains Salines, who adds that if, in the end, no one is interested, “the City Council will look for a formula to maintain the service; it is essential for both residents and tourism.” “I am clear that it is not going to close.”the mayor concluded.
