Christmas : Seasonal business persons lament poor turnover
By Synthia Lateu
Business persons involved in the sale of Christmas items,such as dresses, toys, Christmas trees, and shoes are decrying poor turnover following this season’s sales. In some markets in the economic capital, Douala, their counters remain full of unsold goods.
According to Leonard Temgoua who ventured into the sales of toys during this festive period, sales have been the worst and below his expectation. ” These are goods worth at least 300,000frs that we will have to stock again for next year. The losses are enormous.” He said, pointing at his counter overflowing with toys.
Th economic situation of the country, christmas shoe vendor, Marcial Sedu noted, is increasingly worsening leaving parents unable to afford basic items for their kids.
” A December month when everyone expects to have the best turnover, but sales have instead dropped. Toys are all over the streets, and stores are filled with dresses.” He lamented.
Other vendors attribute the situation to lengthy and challenging procedures for retrieving goods from Cameroonian airports and seaports, which have led to price hikes in the market. Some reported that they managed to retrieve their goods only a day before Christmas, leaving them with llittle time to sell.
Those who borrowed to start their businesses this season are wondering how they will repay their debts. “We borrowed money from the banks, thinking we would make great sales. ” Marcial said.
” Now we are forced to borrow again to pay off our debts and figure out what to do in the meantime.” Leonard added.
Grappling with unsold inventory and mounting debts, despite hopes for a profitable season, vendors are rethinking favorable strategies.
