The seller has dedicated his entire life to the world of sales, starting with his brother when he was between 16 and 17 years old. Currently, he owns a shop in Zarautz and another in Zumaia, although the latter has been closed since the pandemic. His main activity, however, takes place in markets, where he sells home textiles, blankets, and duvets.
His daily routine begins each morning by setting up his market stall, then engaging in sales alongside his colleague Yunes. They pack up the stall by midday, and he dedicates his afternoons to his family. Markets are held on Mondays in Errenteria, Tuesdays in Azpeitia, Wednesdays in Ordizia, Thursdays in Zumaia, Fridays in Legazpi, and Saturdays in Tolosa, all towns in Gipuzkoa.
“"I really enjoy being with people and interacting with them."
The seller emphasizes that the most positive aspect of his market work is the relationship with customers. He appreciates the opportunity to be with and interact with people, noting that customers also enjoy speaking in Basque. However, he is concerned about the decline of the market, as most customers are elderly and younger generations are not maintaining this tradition. He also mentions the disappearance of small businesses and the rise of online shopping, lamenting that money is leaving the Basque Country.
He has also criticized the lack of support from public institutions, believing they have no interest in maintaining the markets. He recalled the difficulties experienced during the pandemic and mentioned new obstacles such as the Ticket Bai system. Regarding the future, the seller prefers to live in the present and be happy with simple things, as having his children nearby, health, and being able to eat every day is enough for him.
Finally, he encourages people to work in the market, considering it a beautiful job despite existing prejudices. He admits that he himself held these prejudices in his youth and felt ashamed due to the racism he experienced. Nevertheless, he highlights that through this work, he has bought a shop and a house, and has three children, demonstrating that, like in all jobs, with effort, one can succeed.
