Yekaterinburg’s “Ice Cream of Our City” kiosks, facing closure due to expiring leases, may have a chance at revival as the city administration considers organizing auctions for new locations. Initially slated to cease operations on July 31st, the fate of these kiosks, owned by the Yekaterinburg cold storage plant No. 3, hung in the balance after their leases expired.

The closure of the first three kiosks in mid-June was followed by the impending expiration of leases for the remaining 24. The initial plan lacked provisions for ice cream kiosks in the new scheme for non-stationary trading facilities, requiring entrepreneurs to participate in auctions for new locations.

However, following media coverage, the city administration has shown willingness to organize auctions for ice cream kiosks, offering a glimmer of hope for the “Ice Cream of Our City” network and the federal chain “Russian Cold”. The Yekaterinburg administration confirmed that they are actively searching for suitable locations.

The need to demolish these kiosks arose from safety concerns, as many were found to be located under gas networks, violating regulations. The city is actively working to identify new locations that adhere to all safety requirements for the displaced kiosks.

This situation is unfolding amidst a broader street trade reform in Yekaterinburg, involving the removal of numerous kiosks and stalls due to safety violations and the need to adhere to updated urban planning regulations.