CSV-Councillor Serge Wilmes, in charge of Luxembourg City's commerce, explained: "We do everything we can to support retailers, restaurants, and cafés in overcoming this crisis".
Besides free rent in municipality-owned properties during the lockdown or tax exemption for terraces, local authorities have also decided to provide a direct aid. The municipality is planning to buy €1,000 worth of shopping vouchers, i.e. 20 vouchers each worth €50, from each local retailer.
From 15 to 26 June, retailers can claim their direct aid by bringing their vouchers to Hall Victor Hugo (or by using the model suggested by the municipality). The vouchers will then be distributed by the municipality through sweepstakes, promotions, or by social criteria.
Wilmes stated: "We estimate that there are about 1,500 retailers, restaurants, and cafés situated in the capital. Therefore, this represents a budget of €1.5 million".
The mayor of Luxembourg City, Lydie Polfer, stressed: "Every business experiences difficulties, especially because many people are still working from home, which leads to fewer people being in the city overall".
Polfer added that 82 applications to enlarge or create terraces have been submitted so far. "This allows restaurants and cafés to increase the number of tables they can offer their customers".
26 parking spaces will be moved in order to make room for terraces. This is for example the case on Rue Notre-Dame where a number of taxi ranks will be turned into terrace spaces.
Wilmes also assured that the traditional "Braderie" (street fair) will still take place. However, the commercial event, which usually takes place at the beginning of September, will have to adapt to the new circumstances. In accordance with the local trade association, the municipality will discuss potential ideas, such as the fair taking place in different neighbourhoods, or over several days.
