The impact of the recent DANA storm, which severely hit Valencia, has extended its reach across the Balearic Islands, notably affecting restaurants and bars in Mallorca. The consequences go beyond the shortages in supermarket shelves caused by disruptions in maritime transport from Valencia.
The economic aftershocks are affecting a wide range of industries, and some are likely to face a delayed blow in the coming months. The hospitality sector, particularly bars and restaurants, is among the worst hit by the scarcity of fresh produce, explains Juan Miguel Ferrer, President of Restauración-CAEB. Due to the unavailability of certain ingredients, many establishments have been forced to modify their menus. Furthermore, price hikes have been unavoidable as owners compete to secure the remaining available supplies.
Scarcity
“The past two weeks have been complicated,” Ferrer notes. He acknowledges that the difficulties of accessing fresh products—especially fresh fish and items from regions such as Valencia, Murcia, and Andalucía—have been substantial. This scarcity isn’t only felt in the restaurant kitchens but also household grocery baskets.
Ferrer admits that some in the hospitality industry contributed to the stockpiling frenzy, aiming to secure enough supplies to serve customers amid uncertainties. He added, “60% of the sector was already closed after the tourist season, which softened the blow. Had this happened in the peak summer months, it would have been disastrous.”
The ripple effect of Valencia’s port blockade
The temporary shutdown of Valencia’s port—a vital supply chain link for the Balearic Islands—has had far-reaching consequences. Ezequiel Horrach, head of the Islands’ freight transport association, stressed the critical role the port plays in providing supplies from mainland Spain. With roads and shipping routes severely disrupted, shipments had to be redirected through Barcelona, adding to delays and costs.
Supermarkets were among those most significantly affected, struggling to restock fresh and perishable items. The situation is expected to normalise by the start of next week. Meanwhile, the economic effects will likely linger, particularly in sectors relying on regular, large-scale deliveries.
Retailers brace for medium-term impacts
The fashion sector’s winter stock had already been delivered before the storm. However, retailers are concerned about the potential delays for spring and summer collections. Pedro Mesquida, from the Jaume II retailers’ association, warns of possible setbacks due to damage to factories and storage facilities in mainland Spain. “The knock-on effects might be felt just as we are supposed to begin receiving spring and summer goods,” he said. Furthermore, he emphasised that any significant delay could hinder sales ahead of key shopping periods like Easter.
The next challenge for retailers comes with Black Friday. This peak moment for retailers is typically a time for winter stock promotions and the launch of festive campaigns. Whether delays will extend to other products, such as toys and seasonal items, remains to be seen.