Samir Mane, president of the Balfin Group, spoke to Opinion about the crisis caused by measures taken to keep the Covid-19 pandemic under control. He said this is a problematic situation not only for small businesses but also for large ones.
On the consequences of the crisis on large companies:
"Big companies like in all countries of the world are very risk averse, not to say more risky than medium and small companies, but we are doing our best and believe that by May or June next year , maintain the financial capacity without removing any of the work. ?
On how long can Albanian companies withstand conditions:
"It depends on the industry, but there are companies that will not close even in April, because the revenue can't afford the costs," he said. There are companies that have one month expiration date. I think big companies can have one to four or five months, but others can last longer. ?
On possible price increases:
?Prices may rise due to the change in the euro exchange rate or even from foreign companies. If they raise them, they will reflect on us too. ?
About supplies:
?I think there is enough supply for at least three to four months. Of course, import supplies depend on the restrictions that other countries will impose. There are places that have set food restrictions, there are places that haven't. "
On the potential unemployment crisis:
I believe we will not escape the trend. I'm sure there will be unemployment. If demand in the west drops, it will undoubtedly affect Albania as well. It's a deep crisis. If businesses stay one month closed, it takes 18 months to recover. I'm sure Albania is in its worst days as I remember it. "
About his companies:
?Retailing has been affected by the crisis massively, but 55% of people are at work, while the rest are at home after shopping malls, retail stores have closed. Everybody has been paid so far and my biggest concern is how not to get any workers fired. ?
