City bustle amid sellers’ gloom

Bridgetown presented a tale of dual narratives on Friday as contrasting scenes unfolded on the streets two shopping days before Christmas.

Vendors told Barbados TODAY they were struggling, yet supermarkets appeared to be prospering, while consumers said they were balancing festive cheer with the harsh realities of high prices.

Even as the capital buzzed with shopping hustle and bustle, business owners reported slow sales, mirroring the sentiments of street vendors and shoppers who said they were burdened by financial constraints during this holiday season.

Despite setting up from as early as 4 a.m., many market stall owners said they were not able to sell many goods. 

One stall owner said: “It truly is disheartening. Imagine being set up before the sun rises and still not a sale. In previous years, we would have seen sales skyrocket, but people are more reserved this year.”

Consumers also echoed a sentiment of financial strain, saying that the high cost of living is casting a shadow over their holiday celebrations. 

Rhea Clarke complained about expenses.

“Things are hard,” she told Barbados TODAY. “I would love to treat my family and friends, but with the price of things, gifting is a luxury I can’t afford this year. I have to focus on necessities.”

But in sharp contrast to the market scenes, supermarket managers reported consistent sales and lively activity throughout their stores daily. Carolyn Maughn, manager at Cherish Cosmetique and Supermarket said: “The sales have been going very well this season. Keeping certain items on the shelf is a little problematic in terms of the volume being picked up by our customers. Hot items are ham, cookies, wines and colognes.

“In comparison to the last two years, considering COVID and the regulations, the foot traffic is maybe twice as much. Persons used to be reserved to avoid contact, but after social distancing regulations have been lifted, there has definitely been an influx.”

Even as consumers expressed
concerns over not being able to spend on items outside of groceries, some jewellery and clothing store owners continued to be optimistic.

In an upbeat assessment, Poonan Uttamchandani, manager of Tropicana Jewellers, said: “We have been seeing a lot of traffic from yesterday and we are hoping to see even more leading up to Christmas Eve. We have recently expanded our location and we have new collections of watches and other jewellery. We are fully stocked and ready for the season.” (AS)