Local Clothing and Footwear Sales Anticipated to Rise Ahead of Eid Al Fitr

Sales of clothing and footwear in Amman are currently low but expected to improve for Eid Al Fitr due to upcoming salary payments. Despite stable prices, consumer purchasing power remains a concern. Retailers have prepared well for the holidays, although overlapping seasonal stocks may complicate sales.

Currently, the local clothing and footwear sales in Amman are lagging compared to previous seasons, despite stable pricing. Traders expect an uptick in sales as salaries are due and shoppers begin to flock to markets in anticipation of the Eid Al Fitr holidays in approximately two weeks. This optimism follows feedback from multiple stakeholders, indicating a potential market revival.

Asaad Qawasmeh, an importer and Amman Chamber of Commerce board member, noted that even though prices remain stable or have decreased, the demand is still below average due to reduced purchasing power among consumers. He anticipates an increase in demand during the final week of Ramadan, acknowledging the challenges merchants face amid seasonal overlaps.

This Eid Al Fitr season is expected to present difficulties for retailers, as they must manage the sale of winter clothing while simultaneously introducing summer inventory. In the early months of the year, Jordan’s imports in ready-made clothing totaled JD45 million, alongside JD14 million in footwear, primarily sourced from nations such as China, Egypt, Turkey, Europe, the United States, and various West Asian countries.

Munir Dayeh, an importer and wholesaler, highlighted that commercial activities for clothing and footwear remain significantly subdued compared to previous festive periods. Despite these challenges, he confirmed that preparations for the holiday have been completed, with inventory stocked at favorable prices. Ihab Qadri, representing the leather and garment industries at the Jordan Chamber of Industry, described the current market activity as “normal” in comparison with prior seasons, suggesting that sector facilities are adequately prepared to meet surging demand.

In summary, while the local clothing and footwear market faces challenges ahead of Eid Al Fitr, stakeholders remain hopeful for improved sales linked to forthcoming salary payments and increased consumer activity. However, difficulties arising from overlapping seasonal inventories and a sluggish market may impede rapid growth. Preparations for the holiday season are in place, with entities ready to address the anticipated demand.

Original Source: www.jordantimes.com