It has been announced that El Corte Ingles – the Spanish equivalent of John Lewis is to open a local branch of the department store close to the Centro Commercial La Marina– but not actually inside the shopping centre . Although many deem it as Benidorm, it technically comes under the town of Finestrat, which runs from the mountain all the way down to the beach at La Cala – geographically it is very long.

While Benidorm Council are busy arguing amongst themselves about red bike lanes, the proposed construction of an underground car-park under the length of the Avd Mediterraneo and working out who will pay for the access road/roundabout leading to the new shopping centre located between the N332 and AP7, Finestrat have welcomed new businesses.

Only last year a new Media Markt opened, selling electronics and construction is underway for a Leroy Merlin, the equivalent of a B&Q superstore, opposite the MABS cancer Support centre.
One of the provisos for new companies is that when recruiting they must give preference to Finestrat residents, in particular the unemployed, which I think is marvellous (obviously assuming that they fit the criteria and ability required).

All we need now is a Primark and all the ex-pats will be happy… plus holidaymakers will be able to fly with hand luggage only and buy what they need here! By the time Benidorm sort out the access issues for their shopping centre there will be no more shops left to fill it.