In Chile, the typical opening hours for shops are Monday to Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. and on Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. However, there are some variations depending on the location and type of store. In tourist areas, shops may have longer opening hours, while smaller stores may close earlier or have a break in the middle of the day.
When it comes to payment, Chilean shops generally accept cash, credit and debit cards, and some may also accept checks. However, it’s important to note that some smaller stores may only accept cash or have a minimum amount for card transactions.
Major Supermarkets in Chile
There are several major supermarket chains in Chile, including Jumbo, Lider, Unimarc, and Tottus. Jumbo and Lider are the two largest chains, and both offer a wide range of products including groceries, household items, electronics, and clothing.
Unimarc is a smaller chain but still has a significant presence throughout Chile. The prices at Unimarc tend to be slightly higher than at Jumbo and Lider. Tottus is a newer chain, but it is rapidly expanding and has become popular among consumers due to its competitive prices and focus on customer service.
Online Shopping in Chile
Online shopping is becoming increasingly popular in Chile, and there are several websites that offer a variety of products for purchase. Mercado Libre is one of the largest online marketplaces in Chile and offers a wide range of products including electronics, clothing, and household items. Falabella is another popular website that offers a range of products including appliances, electronics, and furniture. In addition to these websites, many major retailers also have their own online shopping portals.
Shops for Expats and International Products in Chile
There are several shops in Chile that cater specifically to expats and offer a range of international products. For example, Casa de La India is a shop in Santiago that offers a variety of products from India, including clothing, jewelry, and home decor. There is also a Japanese store called Kawai Market that offers a range of Japanese products including food, beauty products, and stationery.
For expats looking for international food products, there are several options available in Chile. Jumbo and Lider offer a range of imported foods, and there are also specialty stores such as La Casa Inglesa that offer a variety of international products including British, German, and French foods.
Consumer Rights and Contact Details
Consumers in Chile are protected by the Chilean Consumer Protection Law, which establishes guidelines for fair business practices and consumer rights. Under this law, consumers have the right to receive accurate and clear information about products and services, as well as the right to a refund or replacement if a product is faulty.
The main consumer organization in Chile is the National Consumer Service (SERNAC). SERNAC provides information and assistance to consumers, as well as handling complaints and disputes between consumers and businesses. They can be contacted via their website or by phone.
In addition to SERNAC, there are also several other organizations that provide support and advocacy for consumer rights in Chile, including the Consumers International Chile and the Chilean Association of Consumers and Users.