Kochi merchants hopeful for boost in sales during Vishu and Easter

Kochi: Merchants are optimistic about higher than usual sales volumes during the Vishu and Easter festivities. Trade associations report that while city marketplaces experienced a 30% decline in revenue during Ramzan, they anticipate recovering these losses through increased commercial activity during Vishu and Easter celebrations.
Kerala Merchant Chamber of Commerce general secretary Anwar VE said there was a major dip in sales in the market during Ramzan, except in textile shops. Traders are hopeful that sales will go up in the coming days. "Retailers anticipate substantial business as the festivals of Vishu and Easter coincide in the same week. While textile establishments witness significant footfall, other retail sectors remain relatively quiet. Traders are expecting an increase in sales during the upcoming days, particularly on Sunday," he said.
Retail shops at Broadway and MG Road mainly experience the rush during festive seasons. "With just a day remaining until Vishu, major markets in the city have not witnessed the expected surge in sales. Traders aim to offset their revenue deficit through heightened sales during both Vishu and Easter celebrations. The rise of e-commerce platforms has become a significant challenge for traditional retailers. Consumers are increasingly turning to online portals for their grocery and vegetable purchases, which has substantially impacted the business of local retail outlets," said Kerala Vyapari Samithi district secretary C K Jaleel.
Kerala Vyapari Vyavasayi Ekopana Samithi (KVVES) district president C Jacob also opined that the financial crisis faced by the state govt has affected the purchasing power of the people. "In addition to the e-commerce platforms, the climate has also negatively affected sales," he said.