Lifeline for Tradesmen: Bilateral Support from Oliveira de Azeméis to Historical Shops and Local Businesses

At a time when chain stores and giant supermarkets are everywhere in Portugal, it is becoming increasingly difficult for those veteran shops in the neighborhoods to survive. The Municipality of Oliveira de Azeméis in the Aveiro region is preparing to take a very concrete step that will reverse the process. With two separate support packages that will come into effect towards the end of the year or at the beginning of 2027 at the latest, century-old shops will be protected and small tradesmen will be modernized.

The most striking part of the project is gathered under the title of "Historical Shops" (Lojas Históricas). The aim is not just to make nostalgia; To register and protect businesses that carry the memory of the city and stand out with their architecture or traditional craftsmanship.

Grant and Tax Facility up to 5,000 Euros

For businesses that gain historical shop status, the process will not only consist of hanging a plaque:

A non-refundable grant of up to 5,000 euros will be given to restoration, archive maintenance or renovation projects that will be carried out without damaging the original texture of the store.

An official seal valid for four years and promotional support will be provided.

There will be direct exemptions or serious discounts on municipal fees such as signs, advertising and public space use.

The vanishing crafts and documents of these businesses will be recorded and preserved as if they were living museums.

Rent Support and Digital Transformation

The second package covers all small retailers and restaurants in the municipal center. In this program, which aims to revitalize street retailing in particular, a direct contribution of up to 1,500 euros is offered to tradesmen who invest 5,000 euros for modernization or digitalization.

Moreover, a practical solution has been introduced against the pressure on the increase in shop rents: 250 euro monthly rent support will be provided to businesses that meet the conditions for 6 months.

It is also a very inspiring model for other municipalities that want to keep street culture and local tradesmen alive opposite large shopping malls.

Source: TPN / Lusa

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