Workers and shop owners around the Benito Villamarín Stadium, located in Seville’s Heliópolis district, have voiced their concerns over the temporary move of Real Betis matches to La Cartuja. The relocation is expected to last two years, and business representatives warn that the neighborhood “dies without Betis.”

Entrepreneurs fear for the future

Local business owners are worried about a significant drop in sales — on matchdays, revenue was often double compared to regular days. Bars, kiosks, and small shops that relied heavily on fans visiting the stadium are expected to be hit the hardest. Business owners’ statements are quoted by El Periódico de Sevilla. According to Inmaculada Fuentesaspe, an employee of Alimentación Benito, businesses around the stadium live thanks to Betis. Her shop, which earns much from selling sandwiches to supporters on matchdays, could suffer major losses.

This uncertainty is shared by many locals. Rocío Camacho, owner of La Tienda de Rosi, says she is waiting to see how the situation develops once matches are played at La Cartuja. However, she already foresees a strong impact on bars and shops, admitting that everyone will have to adapt. Meanwhile, for María José Ponce of Bar Huracán, the absence of matchday crowds is a clear loss: They will no longer have their meeting point here, they won’t come, she said.

© Espai Héctor

Residents see a chance for calm

While some residents welcome the lack of noise and parking issues, business owners warn that many establishments may not survive the renovation period. There is a widespread belief that without Betis, the district will lose its energy and atmosphere, leaving local commerce struggling to survive. I understand the residents, but they should also understand that in this neighborhood, businesses exist thanks to Real Betis Balompié, said José Manuel Rodríguez, owner of Kiosko Heliópolis, warning that many businesses could close permanently over the next two years.