Guide to Opening a Disney Store in Athens, Greece

Interested in opening a Disney Store in Athens, Greece?

Requirements and Challenges

Can you really open a Disney Store in Athens, Greece?

Indeed, it is possible, but it depends on whether Disney will grant you the necessary rights. Ideally, you should have significant retail experience to be considered for such an initiative. The smartest location for your Disney Store would be the Athens Mall. This area is highly visited and recognized for its welcoming environment, making it ideal for shoppers of all kinds.

Dispelling Misconceptions and Stereotypes

It's important to clarify some misconceptions related to Greece:

There is no reason to avoid opening a Disney Store here based on stereotypical views of Greek hostility towards Americans. Greeks widely use and purchase American products, just like any other global market.

Protests involving Molotov cocktails and burning effigies do not reflect the general opinion. These are rare instances of extremism. Greek store owners often suffer more from such behavior, and even Greek flags are sometimes burned in these protests. These actions should not be considered as representative of the entire population.

Mooning is another point often brought up. Greeks should be aware that similar gestures would not be well-received at American monuments, illustrating the importance of cultural respect.

Step-by-Step Guidance for Opening a Disney Store

With the right guidance, particularly from a local who has experience in starting businesses in Greece, you can successfully establish a Disney Store. Here are the key steps to consider:

1. Research and Licensing

You will need to obtain the necessary Disney licensing. Although there aren't many fully dedicated Disney exclusive stores in Athens, Disney-branded products are highly popular, especially those from movies like Frozen and Cars.

2. Location and Online Presence

Select a strategic location, preferably outside the central Athens area. Creating a robust online presence is crucial, as many Greek shoppers prefer to browse and purchase online. Establishing yourself in both the physical and digital realms will attract a broader customer base.

3. Legal and Financial Support

Hire a Greek accountant, as handling financial matters can be quite complex. Depending on the type of business (company or sole trader), you may also require the assistance of a lawyer.

4. Networking and Support

Form connections with other local businesses. Greeks tend to help one another, which can be beneficial in navigating the challenges of starting a new business.

5. Initial Steps

Visit the Greek Embassy in your country for further guidance. Embassies have departments that can provide answers to common business questions and assist foreigners in starting their businesses in Greece. This can be an invaluable resource for obtaining the necessary permits and understanding local business regulations.

By following these steps and with the right guidance, you can successfully open a Disney Store in Athens, Greece, and bring joy to fans of Disney products in this vibrant city.