The local clothing and footwear market is experiencing reduced sales due to weak purchasing power. Stakeholders anticipate improvements in sales as salaries are disbursed ahead of Eid Al Fitr. Preparations are underway to accommodate increased consumer activity during the holiday period.
The local clothing and footwear market is presently experiencing a decline in buying power, although prices remain stable. Despite this, market stakeholders anticipate an increase in sales as Eid Al Fitr approaches, forecasting improvements when salaries are disbursed. Traders predict that a bustling market scene will emerge in the weeks leading up to the holiday.
Asaad Qawasmeh, an importer and Amman Chamber of Commerce board member, noted that current demand for clothing and footwear is below average due to weak purchasing power among consumers. He expects that demand will rise in the final week of Ramadan.
Challenges are anticipated for apparel merchants during this Eid Al Fitr season, as they must manage the overlap between fall and spring collections, necessitating discounts on winter apparel even as summer styles hit stores. According to Qawasmeh, Jordan’s imports of ready-made clothing in the early months of the year reached JD45 million, complemented by JD14 million in footwear imports primarily from several countries, including China and Europe.
Munir Dayeh, a wholesaler, elaborated that the current commercial activity for clothing and footwear is significantly below previous holiday season levels. However, he affirmed that preparations have been made, with goods available at competitive prices. Additionally, Ihab Qadri, representing the leather and garment industries, described the current market activity as “normal” when compared to past seasons, noting that sector facilities are prepared to meet demand.
In summary, the local clothing and footwear market is currently facing challenges reflected by diminished buying power ahead of Eid Al Fitr. However, forecasts suggest that sales will rebound as wages are paid and consumer activity increases. Traders are preparing for the holiday rush with appropriate inventory ready to meet anticipated demand, despite the complications presented by seasonal overlaps.
Original Source: www.jordantimes.com
