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Blog
Our contribution to the community and recycling was awarded.
July 2024. We are very excited to share that in the month of June 2024, we received three important recognitions for different projects we have carried out for the benefit of the community and the environment. The first was awarded to us by the National Coordination of Good Deeds Day Costa Rica, as the most innovative project in the private sector, for organizing the pet concert for the second consecutive year. The pet concertis led by renowned national musician Carlos “Tapado” Vargas, who carefully selects the instruments and designs the melodies that help animals relax. This event brings together hundreds of animal lovers, especially dog owners, in a free, outdoor activity that is part of the “Smoke-Free Family Sundays,” organized by the Municipality of San José. According to the organization, “Ferretería EPA has demonstrated how companies can lead social and environmental change. Their commitment to the community and the environment is an example for the private sector to follow.” The second recognition comes from the Latin American Electrical and Electronic Waste Project (PREAL), which recognized us for our contribution to the country's Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment System. This is because, since October 2022, we have been collecting this waste during the in-store recycling campaigns held on the first Friday of each month. Thanks to an alliance with the ecoins program, we ensure that electronic devices receive proper component management. The third recognition was received from the National Forestry Office for our contribution to the reforestation of the country, as through our "Ayudar es Sencillo" (Helping is Simple) program and our alliance with "Huella del Futuro" (Footprint of the Future), customers donated 2,886 trees that contributed to the more than 2 million planted by various organizations and companies in celebration of National Tree Day. These projects reflect our core purpose: Better Homes for Better Citizens, and they motivate us to continue working for the well-being of the communities and the environment.
Footprint of the Future 2026
March 2026. Name and description of the activity: Huella del Futuro (Footprint of the Future) is a public-private initiative dedicated to greening key areas of Costa Rica through the planting of native trees that contribute to conserving biodiversity, protecting habitats, and strengthening ecological connections, while promoting sustainability. These trees receive maintenance through communal organizations led primarily by female heads of household. This generates a benefit for local communities and ensures a long-term positive impact. Project objective: To ensure the care and growth of the new forests through the maintenance of the trees for 5 years across various regions of the country. As well as to improve the living conditions of those in charge of their care, particularly vulnerable women, through the rehabilitation of landscapes and ecosystems. Main results: Thanks to the contribution of our customers in the 4 previous fundraising campaigns, we have achieved: 7,916 native trees planted. 8.97 hectares reforested. 130 jobs generated, of which 96 correspond to women and 34 to men, who participate in planting and maintenance work in their communities. These reforestations improve the landscape, restore the ecosystem, and have a direct impact on environmental sustainability: providing oxygen for 348 people per day, securing water for 23,748 people, and helping to absorb the pollution generated by 79,160 vehicles daily. The plantings have taken place in: Las Delicias de Aguas Zarcas, CTP Upala and La Arrocera Upala, near the Ciudad Colón toll booth in Brasil de Santa Ana, Liceo Académico Cascajal in Las Nubes de Coronado, Calle Blancos and Colima on the Northern Bypass, Finca Páez in Oreamuno de Cartago, and the farm of the Association of the Chamber of Tourism Development of La Cruz, Guanacaste (ASCATUR). Fifth fundraising campaign: Running from March 26 to June 30. EPA Communications Team
Ideas
Tips Build, decorate, and remodel by following the recommendations we have to beautify your home. What's New Get first-hand news on the latest updates, projects, and facilities we are developing in the country Do It Yourself Learn to renovate and carry out the home improvements you need with your own hands. Workshops Discover the workshops we have prepared for you to improve your home during our different seasons.
The second edition of Family Day arrives in Cartago
May 2026. This Sunday, May 31, Plaza Mayor will be filled with activities, music, and spaces designed to share with the family and enjoy a special day. From 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., both young and old can enjoy experiences full of entertainment, fellowship, and fun in an environment designed for enjoying time together. During the event, attendees can enjoy zip-lining, a recycling station, a pet area, entertainment, games, a photo booth, and various other activities to spend a day full of energy and good times. Music will also take center stage with live performances to enjoy throughout the day: 12:00 p.m. – Por Descarte3:00 p.m. – Los Hicsos The Cartago Family Day is an invitation to share, enjoy, and create unforgettable memories with those you love most. We look forward to seeing you at Plaza Mayor for a Sunday full of entertainment, music, and activities for the whole family. EPA Communications Team
A different kind of weekend for Family Day
July 2026. On May 9th and 10th, La Sabana Metropolitan Park will become the ideal meeting point for those who wish to share quality time, enjoy the outdoors, and live experiences designed for all ages. Family Day returns with a dynamic and varied proposal, where each space invites you to participate, discover, and create memories in the company of your loved ones. From culinary options to recreational activities, the event offers alternatives for you to design your own itinerary throughout the weekend. Throughout the park, you will find a wide range of food trucks, a small market featuring local businesses, play areas, inflatables, as well as spaces dedicated to sports, relaxation, and socialization. There will also be activities for pets, concerts, karaoke, ziplining, workshops on resin, plants, bags, slime, and painting, along with many more activities for children and adults to enjoy. Both days will feature entertainment provided by Charly and the host UGA, who will accompany and entertain the public. Saturday, May 9thOn stage from noon onwards, music takes center stage with concerts by: Zumba with Viviana Céspedes at 10 Marfil at 12 Mario Quirós at 3 Karina Severino and Marco Jara at 5 Closing with La Kuarta at 8 Sunday, May 10th Zumba with Viviana Céspedes at 10 Son de Calle at 2:30 Gatillazo at 4:30 Grand finale with Gaviota at 6 Workshops Hosted by Activity Lanco 10:30 to 1:30: Bag painting workshop and photobooth. Saturday only Sur Saturday, May 9th: 10 to 11 Slime workshop 11:30 to 12:30 Ceramic painting 1:30 to 2:30: Modeling workshop. Sunday, May 10th: 10 to 11 Slime workshop 11:30 to 12:30 Bag painting workshop 1:30 to 2:30 Slime workshop 20 people per workshop Prolusa Castrol: 9 to 5 Castrol Goalie (prizes for scoring goals) Interstate Batteries: 9 to 3 Coloring workshop. Meguiar's: 9 to 5 Photobooth (prizes for uploading photos to social media) Purina Pet giveaway stands (while supplies last) Nexxt 9 to 1 Coloring workshop 1 to 5 Series competition 4 to 7 Karaoke Credix Photobooth Biorganics 11 Home garden workshop 2 Home garden workshop Capacity 30 people per workshop Family Day offers an experience where everyone finds their own space, whether to enjoy the gastronomy, support entrepreneurs, play, relax, explore, or simply enjoy the surroundings. We invite you to be part of this celebration and to experience two days full of activities, music, and moments that become lasting memories. Family Day is sponsored by Pepsi. Supported by: Credix, Sur, Lanco, Prolusa, and Purina. And it is organized by Full Productions. EPA Communications Team
Wishes that Build: Transforming realities
November 2025. This Christmas, we invite you to discover stories that inspire and build a better future. "Deseos que Construyen" (Wishes that Build) is our year-end social action campaign, an initiative that brings together five partner organizations working toward the same goal: to generate a positive social and environmental impact. During this edition, the organizations present their social or environmental transformation projects, and you can vote for your favorite via this link. The project that receives the most votes will receive US$15,000 and will have the opportunity to be a beneficiary of an "Ayudar es Sencillo" (Helping is Simple) campaign at the end of 2026. The foundations that do not win will receive a US$500 shopping voucher redeemable at our stores, as support for their valuable work. In addition, each organization will present its proposal on the television program DMTS on TD+2, where they will share their story and motivate the public to vote. We invite you to experience the emotions of each program with us on Tuesdays, November 25, and December 2 and 9, from 9:00 to 10:00 p.m. Get to know the participating projects: 1. Aldeas Infantiles SOS – “Convirtamos Sueños” (Let’s Turn Dreams into Reality) Through the YouthCan! program, this foundation opens doors to technical and vocational training for vulnerable youth between the ages of 15 and 24. More than 550 participants receive training, vocational guidance, and employment support, transforming their potential into a future and their confidence into a life tool. In this season of sharing and building together, every vote represents a wish that becomes possible. "Deseos que Construyen" invites everyone to be part of a collective story, where solidarity becomes the best Christmas gift. 2. Fundación Construyendo Sonrisas – “AgroSonrisas: Granja con Propósito” (AgroSmiles: Farm with a Purpose) In Naranjales de Sarapiquí, a circular educational and self-sustainable micro-farm is flourishing, led by youth in technical training; there, knowledge is transformed into food, waste into resources, and learning into employment. More than 400 children and youth benefit from a project that sows sustainability and hope, becoming a model of the circular economy for rural areas. 3. Fundación Lloverá – “Puente de Sueños” (Bridge of Dreams) In San José, this initiative supports individuals with a history of homelessness and psychoactive substance use. Through training, support, and social-labor reintegration processes, more than 60 participants regain their autonomy and rediscover the possibility of a new beginning. 4. Fundación SIFAIS – “Reactivación del Emprendimiento Pan de Luz” (Reactivation of the Pan de Luz Entrepreneurship) In the heart of La Carpio, this proposal promotes bakery training for 24 people in vulnerable situations. Pan de Luz represents much more than a business: it is an opportunity to generate dignified employment, strengthen self-sufficiency, and build community through solidarity and talent. 5. Green Wolf – “Guardianes del Pacífico Central” (Guardians of the Central Pacific) From Guacalillo, Puntarenas, this organization leads a crusade for marine conservation and forest restoration, integrating responsible waste management and sea turtle protection. Their effort creates more than 120 direct and indirect job opportunities, with a strong boost for female and youth employment. In addition, it promotes environmental education and corporate volunteering, uniting community and nature under the same purpose. We want to make the work of our partner foundations visible and continue to demonstrate that when the community comes together, change is possible. This initiative also seeks to promote citizen participation, solidarity, and hope, taking advantage of the Christmas season to inspire more gestures that leave a mark. We invite you to watch the project videos, learn their stories, and vote for the one that inspires you the most. Because every vote counts, and together we can build a Christmas full of purpose. EPA Communications Team Vote here for your favorite project
Receive your products anywhere in the country
July 2026. Now carrying out your projects is easier thanks to our delivery service outside the Greater Metropolitan Area (GAM). Shop at epaenlinea.com and receive your products wherever you need them, thanks to our wide national coverage. We make deliveries outside the GAM in all 84 cantons of Costa Rica, subject to available coverage. This service allows you to receive a wide variety of products directly at your home, business, or project site, regardless of the location. Service availability is subject to coverage validation and access conditions in each area. How does it work? To schedule a delivery outside the GAM, orders must be invoiced at least 2 business days before the delivery date, allowing for their inclusion in the scheduled route. Additionally, payment confirmation must be received before 12:00 p.m. for the order to be considered in the corresponding planning. Deliveries are made between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Delivery times Delivery times may vary depending on the location and logistical conditions of each area. However, they take place between 1 to 5 business days, taking into account route scheduling, subject to available coverage. The cost of the service is calculated based on several factors: Distance to the destination. Weight of the merchandise. Dimensions of the products. Access conditions of the area. Orders with a maximum weight of 100 kg are accepted. Delivery information In order to provide an efficient experience, it is important that you inform us in advance of any special conditions related to the delivery location, such as: Entry restrictions. Special access roads. Gates or access controls. Specific instructions to reach the destination. Please note that deliveries are made as far as the vehicle has safe and adequate access. Some locations may have restrictions, so each request is validated in advance. Whether for construction, decoration, or remodeling, our delivery service outside the GAM allows you to receive your products in a practical and convenient way. EPA Communications Team
Experience a different kind of weekend for Family Day
May 2026. On May 9th and 10th, La Sabana Metropolitan Park will become the ideal meeting point for those wishing to share quality time, enjoy the outdoors, and experience activities designed for all ages. Family Day returns with a dynamic and varied proposal, where each space invites you to participate, discover, and create memories with your loved ones. From dining options to recreational activities, the event offers alternatives for you to design your own itinerary throughout the weekend. Throughout the park, you will find a wide range of food trucks, a small market featuring local entrepreneurs, play areas, inflatables, as well as spaces dedicated to sports, relaxation, and socializing. There will also be activities for pets, concerts, karaoke, canopy tours, workshops on resin, plants, bags, slime, and painting, and many more activities for children and adults alike to enjoy. On both days, we will have entertainment by Charly and the host UGA, who will accompany and energize the crowd. Saturday, May 9th On stage starting at noon, music takes center stage with concerts by: Zumba with Viviana Céspedes at 10 a.m. Marfil at 12 p.m. Mario Quirós at 3 p.m. Karina Severino and Marco Jara at 5 p.m. Closing with La Kuarta at 8 p.m. Sunday, May 10th Zumba with Viviana Céspedes at 10 a.m. Son de Calle at 2:30 p.m. Gatillazo at 4:30 p.m. Grand finale with Gaviota at 6 p.m. Workshops Hosted by Activity Lanco 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.: Bag painting workshop and photobooth. Saturday only Sur Saturday, May 9th: 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Slime workshop 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Ceramic painting 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.: Modeling workshop. Sunday, May 10th: 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Slime workshop 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Bag painting workshop 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Slime workshop 20 people per workshop Prolusa Castrol: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Castrol Goalie (prizes for scoring goals) Interstate Batteries: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Coloring workshop. Meguiar's: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Photobooth (prizes for uploading photos to social media) Purina Giveaway stands for pets (while supplies last) Nexxt 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Coloring workshop 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Series competition 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Karaoke Credix Photobooth Biorganics 11 a.m. Home gardening workshop 2 p.m. Home gardening workshop Capacity of 30 people per workshop Family Day offers an experience where every person finds their space, whether it is to enjoy the gastronomy, support entrepreneurs, play, relax, explore, or simply enjoy the surroundings. We invite you to be part of this celebration and experience two days full of activities, music, and moments that become lasting memories. Family Day is sponsored by Pepsi. It is supported by: Credix, Sur, Lanco, Prolusa, and Purina. It is organized by Full Productions. EPA Communication Team
We planted 300 trees at El Jobo Beach.
October 2025. On September 27th, Playa El Jobo, in La Cruz de Guanacaste, was the site of a special event: 70 volunteers came together to plant 300 native trees as part of the ASCATUR Ecotourism Project, with the goal of strengthening the local ecosystem and beautifying the area. This activity, carried out on a farm owned by the La Cruz Chamber of Tourism Development (ASCATUR), seeks to restore degraded areas, improve forest connectivity, and create a healthier environment for wildlife and the community. The planting was made possible thanks to the support of customers who made donations to the "Huella del Futuro" (Footprint of the Future) program at our registers between March and June 2025, funds with which an additional 590 trees were planted in Oreamuno de Cartago. The event included volunteers from EPA, members of ASCATUR, students from UNED, Boy Scouts, representatives from the Municipality of La Cruz, local community members, tourism sector leaders, and the Environmental Bank Foundation (FUNBAN). This project will be managed by the local association, which is primarily made up of women, who will follow up on the care and maintenance of the planted trees, thus ensuring their healthy growth. Through actions like these, we continue to promote environmental protection and support for our communities. EPA Communications Team
Enjoy family fun at Smoke-Free Family Sundays
January 2026. Enjoy family fun at our Smoke-Free Family Sundays Smoke-Free Family Sunday activities are designed to promote community, well-being, and recreation in a healthy, smoke-free environment. For this reason, for the fourth consecutive year, we will be participating in a space designed for you and your family to enjoy outdoor activities and share quality time. Activities will take place on Paseo Colón on February 15th and 22nd and March 1st, while the March 8th event will be held at La Sabana Metropolitan Park. Each Sunday is an ideal opportunity to break your routine and enjoy a different experience in a safe and friendly environment. During each event, you will find a wide variety of activities for all ages, including a bicycle circuit for children, a family play area, special areas for pets with an agility ramp, entertainment, a photobooth, prizes, and many more surprises. We will also have a recycling station where you can exchange recyclable materials for EPA promotional items. We invite you to join us from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and be part of this experience designed for the enjoyment, community, and well-being of the entire family. EPA Communications Team
Complete Epoxy Resin Guide: Uses, Benefits, and How to Apply It Like an Expert
Complete Guide to Epoxy Resin: Uses, benefits, and applications of epoxy resin Transparent epoxy resin has established itself as the preferred material for both artisans and construction professionals in Costa Rica. Its versatility, crystal-clear shine, and high resistance make it ideal for projects ranging from jewelry pieces to coating large surfaces. If you are looking to transform your spaces or start a creative project, understanding what this "liquid glass" is and how to use it is the first step toward achieving success in your work. What is transparent epoxy resin and what is it used for? Epoxy resin is a thermosetting polymer that, when mixed with a catalyst (hardener) agent, changes from a liquid to a solid state. The result is an extremely hard, shiny, and completely transparent surface. Unlike other conventional varnishes, epoxy resin does not shrink when drying and offers superior protection against moisture and wear. You can use it for: Encapsulation: preserve objects inside a highly durable transparent layer.Wood finishes: create the famous "river tables" with professional finishes.Crafts: ideal for creating keychains, costume jewelry, and custom coasters.Industrial coatings: high-traffic floors and concrete surface protection. Benefits of Arti Sur epoxy resin At EPA, we recommend the Arti Sur line for its formulation designed to offer professional results with great ease of use. By choosing an epoxy resin kit, you get: Crystal transparency: Prevents yellowing over time, maintaining the original aesthetic of your work.Self-leveling properties: the mixture spreads evenly, naturally eliminating imperfections during application.High resistance: withstands impacts and chemicals, and is also extremely easy to clean.Multi-surface versatility: works perfectly on wood, metal, ceramic, and cement.For your small projects or if you wish to start in this technique, the Arti Sur Transparent Epoxy Resin 1 Liter is the perfect size to experiment with just the right amount of material. Step-by-step: how to apply the kit correctly? Achieving a mirror finish requires you to work with precision. Below, we explain how to use the 1/8 gallon Arti Sur multi-surface epoxy resin kit: 1. Surface preparation Ensure the base is clean, dry, and free of grease. If you plan to work on wood, we suggest sanding it beforehand so that the resin adheres optimally. 2. Mixing ratio Most failures in resin applications occur due to improper mixing. Strictly follow the instructions on the container. Generally, a two-part system is used (Resin A and Hardener B). Pour both components into a clean container.Mix gently for 3 to 5 minutes, making sure to scrape the walls and bottom of the container well. 3. Eliminate bubbles It is normal for small bubbles to appear during mixing. Once the resin is poured onto your project, you can use a small heat torch or a blow dryer to eliminate them quickly before the material begins to harden. 4. Curing time Let your piece rest in a place free of dust and drafts. Although the dry-to-the-touch time is usually 24 hours, full curing can take up to 72 hours, depending on the relative humidity of the environment. Where to buy epoxy resin in Costa Rica? If you are asking about the price of epoxy resin or where to get complete kits with a guarantee, at EPA we offer you options that fit your budget: For medium projects: The Arti Sur 1/8 Gallon Multi-surface Epoxy Resin Kit is the ideal option for tables and decorative surfaces.For details and repairs: The 1 Liter Epoxy Resin presentation is the most sought-after. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) How much resin do I need for my project? This will depend on the thickness of the layer you want to apply. As a general rule, 1 liter of mixture covers approximately 1 square meter with a thickness of 1 mm. Can it be applied over concrete floors? Yes, epoxy resin is the basis of the liquid porcelain system. It provides a continuous, joint-free, and highly hygienic finish for your home or business. Is it heat resistant? Once the product has fully cured, it withstands moderate temperatures (like a cup of coffee). However, we do not recommend direct contact with pots or pans fresh off the stove.
Together for Venezuela 2026
July 2026. Activity name and description: The "Together for Venezuela" Helping is Simple campaign was born following the earthquake that struck thousands of families who are now facing profound losses and urgent challenges to survive. In events like this, needs are constantly changing. Therefore, we have decided to collect financial contributions, allowing our partner organizations to allocate resources to the priorities identified at any given moment. In this way, aid can arrive more promptly, efficiently, and where it is truly needed. Project objective: By launching this campaign, we reaffirm our commitment to transparency. We ensure that funds will be allocated exclusively to organizations that demonstrate the necessary operational capacity to provide effective assistance to the affected communities. And we guarantee that the entire process will be audited by an independent third party. The checkout counters at all our stores in Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Venezuela are already enabled to receive voluntary donations. Additionally, those who wish to contribute from their homes or from anywhere in the world will be able to make their contribution via bank transfer by writing to the email address: ayudarsencillo@epa.biz. In Costa Rica, you can do so through the website: https://cr.epaenlinea.com/juntos-x-venezuela.html or via Sinpe móvil: 6005-2876. Main results: In execution starting July 2, 2026. EPA Communications Team
