Summer sales 2025: Start date, duration, and what shoppers should know

As is the case every year, the official summer sales in Greece will begin on the second Monday of July, according to legislation.

This year, the 2025 summer sales will kick off on Monday, July 14, and will run through to Sunday, August 31, marking the end of the summer season.

Greek law also allows shops to open on the first Sunday following the start of the sales period. Therefore, Sunday, July 20, 2025, will be a permitted trading day for retail stores.

Consumer Guidelines During the Sales Period:
Shoppers are advised to pay close attention to the following points:

1. Clear Signage: Stores must display clear notices indicating that sales are in progress.
2. Double Pricing: Products on sale must show both the original price (usually struck through) and the new, discounted price, clearly visible either on the item or at the point of display.
3. Discount Percentages: While not mandatory, if a discount percentage is displayed, it must explicitly state it refers to a discount (e.g., “30% off”).
4. Sales vs. Special Offers: Sales apply to current-season products, whereas offers—often involving higher discounts—usually apply to older stock. These two should not be confused.
5. Special Offer Labeling: For special offers, signage must indicate that it is an offer. Products must include both the original and the offer price. Note: Offers often come with no return or exchange policy, so consumers should buy carefully.
6. Large Discount Claims: Be wary of stores that advertise steep discounts on only a few items—this does not necessarily reflect lower prices across the board.
7. Installment Purchases: If buying in installments, be fully informed about the terms and conditions.
8. Product Information: Don’t hesitate to ask about the origin and quality of a product. By law (Article 1 of Law 2251/94), the seller must provide all relevant details before a sale.
9. Returns and Defects: Retailers are obligated to accept returns on defective items purchased during the sales, unless the defect was already disclosed and clearly marked prior to purchase.
10. Receipts: Always ask for a receipt. This is your proof of purchase and is necessary in the case of defective goods.
11. User Manuals and Warranties: Request the product's user manual and warranty terms in Greek.