Chile's traditional baking industry in decline: Nearly 300 bakeries in the capital region closed in 5 years

According to a report on the ADN Radio website on the 5th, research shows that multiple factors have collectively impacted this industry, which is deeply rooted in the daily lives of the people. Firstly, the security threats and economic uncertainty brought about by social unrest triggered the first wave of store closures in the central area of the capital and surrounding communities, with traditional stores that rely on daily sales and stable customer flow being the hardest hit. Subsequently, the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, along with quarantine and travel restrictions, as well as the continuous rise in key costs such as flour, energy, and rent, made it difficult for many stores to sustain themselves. Juan Mendiburu, president of the Chilean Association of the Bread Industry (Indupan), pointed out that the industry is facing the challenge of a sharp rise in land prices, with the value of many locations exceeding the operating value of the bakeries themselves, leading many ...