JPP Wants "At Least" One New Supermarket Chain in Madeira

Fátima Aveiro: Will Do Everything to Have “at Least” One New Supermarket Chain in Madeira

Fátima Aveiro, The independent candidate of Juntos Pelo Povo (JPP) for the presidency of Funchal’s City Council, said on Saturday, that she will work to bring “at least one more supermarket chain” to the city if elected on October 12. Speaking during a campaign event outside a large hypermarket, she argued that increased competition could help reduce the cost of basic goods.

The cost of living in Funchal, and in Madeira as a whole, is a serious burden for families.

She said, criticizing both the current City Council and the Regional Government for not addressing the issue.

If there is a German chain that since 2023 announced it was coming to Madeira, even made investments for that purpose, and still has not opened the announced stores, it is because difficulties are being created. Otherwise, the City Council and the Government should explain what is happening; it is the duty of those who govern.

Fátima Aveiro, Diário de Notícias Madeira

Lack of New Supermarkets Blocks Competition

Aveiro defended what she called a “free market,” arguing that new supermarket chains face obstacles in Madeira. She cited the case of a German retailer that announced plans to open stores on the island in 2023 but has still not begun operations. “If there are difficulties being created, or if not, then the City Council and the Government must explain what is happening. It is their duty,” she stated.

The candidate believes that allowing a new chain to enter the Funchal market would increase competition and directly lower food prices for families. “I will use all possible means to make this a reality,” she added.

Data Shows Families Under Pressure

Aveiro pointed to Eurostat figures published on July 18, showing that Portugal ranks third among the 27 EU member states for the highest food prices. She argued that in Madeira, the cost of living is 20% to 30% higher than on the mainland.

I honestly wonder how anyone can speak of record GDP figures when we have such a devastating social situation

Fátima Aveiro, Diário de Notícias Madeira

She also referred to the Regional report on poverty published in March 2025, which found that one in four residents is at risk of poverty. The same report highlighted that 71,200 people live in poverty or social exclusion, while 62,800 earn less than €591 per month.

Poverty Even Among THose That Have a Job

Aveiro stressed that many workers also face hardship, with 15.7% of employed people in Madeira at risk of monetary poverty - about 20,000 individuals. This is the highest level recorded in the region since 2018, and only the Azores has a higher rate.

“With a JPP City Council, the cost of living and housing will have concrete answers,” Aveiro promised. “We have a duty to take better care of our people and to give them a dignified life, governing for everyone and not just for statistics that only benefit a few.”

Source: Diário de Notícias Madeira