A cross-section of traders at the Takoradi Central Business District (CBD) in the Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolis (STMA) of the Western Region have expressed mixed opinions about their expectations of sales during this year’s Yuletide.
As some traders are enjoying significant rises in sales this week, others are optimistic that business will soon boom.
In an interview with Spice News, some of the traders attributed the slow sales to the impact of the Corona Virus 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic that hit hard on economies globally.
Madam Esther Abaidoo, Sales Representative at Agyenkwa Phones and Accessories Shop, said sales were picking up slowly after the just ended December 07 general elections.
She said her outfit had introduced new phones at reduced prices making sales moderately good and they were hoping for increased sales during the Christmas peak.
Madam Agness Mansah, a fishmonger at the Kojokrom Market said prices of fish had increased compared to the same period last year and complained of low fish catch which had resulted in price hikes, thereby affecting sales.
Auntie Ama and Maame Mensima, yam and pepper sellers respectively, said sales had not gone up compared to the same period last year but prices of goods have gone up marginally.
Mrs Grace Afful who deals in quantities of assorted drinks, biscuits hats, knockouts, and balloons was positive that business has been good this year.
Miss Portia Hemaa, a sachet water seller was also positive that there has been an increase in sales this period and expecting more during the Yuletide saying, “the signs had already started showing”.
Meanwhile, some of the traders told the Spice News Team that sales were not good, compared to the same period last year but were hopeful to record better returns during the Christmas festivities.
Miss Esi Mensah, a boutique owner said sales were normal as well as prices of her goods, and was of the view that the impact of COVID-19, may have accounted for the general low sales.
Story: Seth Ameyaw Danquah
