Greece’s retail market is already preparing for the winter sales season of 2026, which will officially begin on Monday, Jan. 12. The discount period will last for 60 days, ending on Feb. 27, providing a welcome boost for both businesses and consumers during the early months of the year.
Participation in the sales season is optional for retailers. However, stores that choose to take part are required to comply with strict transparency rules. These include clearly displaying both the original and the reduced price of products and avoiding misleading or deceptive offers.
Throughout the sales period, Greece’s consumer protection framework remains fully in force. Shoppers have the right to report defective products, false pricing, or unfair commercial practices to the relevant authorities, ensuring that discounts are genuine and transactions remain fair.
Experts advise consumers to approach the sales with planning and caution. Drawing up a list of items that are genuinely needed can help shoppers avoid impulsive purchases driven by short-term promotions rather than real necessity.
Tips for Smart and Safe Shopping During the Winter Sales 2026 Period
Compare prices: Before making a purchase, compare prices across different physical stores or online platforms to confirm the actual benefit of the discount.
Check price labels: Retailers must clearly display both the original and the discounted price. Consumers should verify that the reduction is real and not misleading.
Be cautious with overly attractive deals: Offers that seem too good to be true, especially online, deserve extra scrutiny.
Shop from reliable sources: Choosing well-known stores or official platforms reduces the risk of fraud or low-quality products.
Review return policies: Carefully read the terms for returns or exchanges to avoid issues after completing a purchase.
Inspect products carefully: Check items upon delivery or before leaving the store to identify any damage or defects.
Practice online shopping safety: When shopping online, use secure payment methods and keep receipts or email confirmations for every transaction.
