20 December, Vitebsk /Olga Bogacheva - BELTA/. In the Vitebsk region, control over the operation of mobile shops has been strengthened, as reported to BELTA by the Vitebsk Regional Union of Consumer Societies. Taking into account the severe cold snap, to ensure the uninterrupted supply of necessary products to the rural population, the enterprises of the Regional Union of Consumer Societies have intensified control over the dispatch of mobile shops to their routes. Responsible specialists have been appointed, and on weekends, duty officers monitor the situation. Information on the main routes of all 146 mobile shops has been provided to the district executive committees to ensure road clearance. In case of unforeseen situations, drivers and sales assistants have mobile phones with them. For the same purpose, communication is maintained with local village elders in each settlement to warn people in advance in case of delays. "So far, no complaints from the public related to the operation of mobile shops have been received," specialists noted. In anticipation of the Christmas and New Year holidays, the enterprises of the Regional Union of Consumer Societies will hold a series of festive events. Thus, starting from December 20, the operating hours will be extended in 500 retail outlets of the Vitebsk Regional Union of Consumer Societies. On December 22, the "Night of Christmas Discounts" event will take place, during which retail outlets will operate until 11 p.m. and sell all goods with a twofold reduction in trade markups (on average, it is 30%). The holding of 150 fairs, 40 Christmas tree markets, and over 500 exhibitions-sales are also planned. "Thus, villagers will have a sufficient choice of both products and opportunities to purchase them. Residents of remote villages can always leave an order at a mobile shop if necessary. However, they have not requested anything unusual or impossible so far – no snakes or reptiles have been ordered," the Regional Union of Consumer Societies noted, adding that last year the peak of orders and sales occurred in the last pre-New Year days. Confectionery, baked goods, and ready-made culinary products were in particular demand. -0-

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