ambulantes

Ambulantes, or ambulant vendors, are individuals who sell goods or services in public spaces without fixed storefronts. They operate in streets, sidewalks, markets, near transit hubs, or at events, often moving between locations. The term is widely used in Spanish- and Portuguese-speaking contexts to describe people who work informally or semi-formally in the urban economy.

Typical offerings include prepared foods and beverages, clothing, accessories, crafts, household items, toys, electronics, and everyday services such as shoe shining or minor repairs. Some ambulantes sell goods directly to pedestrians, while others set up temporary stalls or carts. Their operations can be daily, seasonal, or linked to specific events, and they may work individually or as part of a small team.

Economic and social role: ambulantes provide affordable options for residents, support micro-entrepreneurs and low-income workers, and contribute to local economies by circulating goods and money within neighborhoods. They can enhance urban vitality and provide convenience for commuters. However, because many operate outside formal licensing and taxation systems, their status can be informal, limiting access to formal credit, social protections, and regulatory oversight. This informality can raise concerns about health, safety, competition with fixed businesses, and urban space management.

Regulation and policy approaches vary by city and country. Authorities may require licenses or permits, health and safety compliance, and location restrictions, while some cities establish designated vending zones or formal markets to integrate ambulantes into urban planning. Policy aims generally seek to balance economic opportunity for vendors with public space management, consumer protection, and urban cleanliness.