In addition to the difficult economic situation facing families in Durango, a considerable increase in rental costs has been recorded.
January isn’t even over yet, and 20 businesses have already closed in downtown Durango, reported Beatriz Zamora, vice president of the merchants of the Constitución Corridor and former president of the National Chamber of Small Businesses (Canacope).
She explained that one of the factors influencing business closures in these first days of 2026 is the high cost of rent, which has created greater economic pressure for small businesses.
“I think sales have dropped by about 50 percent. I believe that right now, in our count, we have about 20 businesses that have closed their doors, and most of them have cited the increase in rent,” she stated.
The cost of rent has risen considerably, making it unprofitable for businesses to rent a space. “Some rents have skyrocketed from 12,000 to 17,000 pesos. Business owners say, ‘That’s a lot,’ and that’s when they no longer see it as profitable,” he stated.
There are even larger spaces being rented for up to 50,000 pesos, which is completely unaffordable given the low sales.
“We know sales are down; the state’s economy is what’s really causing all this, and unemployment is hitting us even harder,” he mentioned.
He said that businesses that have closed are located on practically every street, including the busiest ones like 20 de Noviembre, 5 de Febrero, Pino Suárez, and the Constitución Corridor. “It’s really happening throughout the Historic Center and the surrounding areas, without a doubt,” he added.
And, as for the types of businesses, none are spared. “Every sector, from restaurants to clothing stores and shoe stores, is being hit hard,” he added.
Therefore, he believes that, given this adverse situation, a change in the way authorities operate is necessary, since entrepreneurs are often severely impacted by constant fines and taxes.
He also raised the need for support, training, and tax incentives, especially for small businesses, since there is interest in starting businesses, but ultimately they end up closing down because the businesses cease to be profitable.
Source: elsiglodedurango
