Peru is a diverse country in South America with a growing retail industry. In this article, we will discuss typical opening hours of shops, forms of payment accepted, major supermarkets in Peru, online shopping popularity, expat-specific shops, and consumer rights.
Typical opening hours of shops in Peru and forms of payment accepted
Most shops in Peru are open from Monday to Saturday between 10:00 am and 8:00 pm, with some staying open until later at night. On Sundays, shops usually open in the afternoon and stay open until early evening.
As for forms of payment, most shops in Peru accept both cash and credit card payments. However, it is important to note that some smaller shops and markets may only accept cash.
Major Supermarkets in Peru and differences between them
There are several major supermarket chains in Peru, with the two biggest ones being Wong and Metro.
Wong is a Peruvian supermarket chain with several stores throughout the country. It is known for its high-quality products, including fresh produce and meat, and has a focus on international products, including imported goods from around the world. However, Wong’s prices are generally higher than those at other supermarkets.
Metro is a German-based supermarket chain with several stores throughout the country. It is known for its low prices and good quality products, including fresh produce and meat. Metro also has a focus on private-label products, which helps keep prices low.
Online shopping popularity and main websites
Online shopping is becoming increasingly popular in Peru, with more and more people opting to shop online instead of in physical stores. Some of the most popular online shopping websites in Peru include:
Mercado Libre: This website offers a wide range of products, including electronics, clothing, and household items, and ships to Peru.
Wong Online: This website allows users to shop online and have their products delivered to their doorstep. It offers a range of products from groceries to electronics.
Metro Online: This website also allows users to shop online and have their products delivered to their doorstep. It offers a range of products from groceries to electronics.
Shops in Peru specifically for expats and finding international products
There are several shops in Peru specifically for expats, catering to their specific needs and tastes. Some of these shops include:
La Delicia: This shop is located in Lima and specializes in international products, including food, drinks, and household items.
Casa San Francisco: This shop is located in Lima and specializes in international wines and spirits.
Specialty Food Shops: There are several specialty food shops in Lima that offer a range of international products, including cheeses, meats, and gourmet foods.
For finding specific international products, expats can also try visiting ethnic food stores or online retailers, such as Global Foods or World Market, which offer a range of products from different countries.
Consumer rights and contact details of main consumer organizations in Peru
Consumers in Peru have several rights that are protected by law. These include the right to a refund, the right to a replacement product or service, and the right to cancel a contract within a certain time period.
If consumers have a complaint or dispute with a business, they can contact the Instituto Nacional de Defensa de la Competencia y de la Protección de la Propiedad Intelectual (INDECOPI). INDECOPI is responsible for enforcing consumer protection laws and can impose fines or penalties on businesses that violate these laws. Consumers can file a complaint with INDECOPI online or by visiting one of their offices throughout the country.
In addition to INDECOPI, there are several consumer organizations in Peru that can provide information and assistance to consumers. Some of the main organizations include:
- Asociación Peruana de Consumidores y Usuarios: This organization is dedicated to promoting and protecting consumer rights in Peru. It provides information and assistance to consumers who have a complaint or dispute with a business.
- Organización de Consumidores y Usuarios del Perú: This organization is a non-profit consumer association that aims to defend and promote consumer rights in Peru. It provides information and advice to consumers on a range of issues, including consumer protection laws, product safety, and fair trading practices.
Consumers can contact these organizations by phone, email, or through their websites for assistance with consumer-related issues.
In conclusion, the retail industry in Peru offers a range of shopping experiences and products for consumers. Most shops are open from Monday to Saturday between 10:00 am and 8:00 pm, with some staying open until later at night. The major supermarket chains in Peru are Wong and Metro, each with their own unique selling points. Online shopping is becoming increasingly popular, with websites like Mercado Libre, Wong Online, and Metro Online offering a wide range of products. For expats, there are shops specifically catering to their needs, as well as specialty food shops and online retailers. Consumers in Peru have several rights that are protected by law and can seek assistance and information from organizations such as INDECOPI, Asociación Peruana de Consumidores y Usuarios, and Organización de Consumidores y Usuarios del Perú.