Traders at the Effiduase Market in the Sekyere East District of the Ashanti Region have expressed concern over slow sales as the Christmas festivities approach.
In an interview with the media, several traders noted that the period leading up to Christmas is usually marked by increased patronage, but this year has been different.
According to them, sales remain low despite the recent appreciation of the cedi against the US dollar, which has led to a reduction in the prices of some goods.
One of the traders, Maame Boahemaa, who operates at the Nyanfa Station area of the market, said although customers frequently visit her shop to inquire about prices, many leave without making purchases.
“Things are not going well compared to previous years. Even though the strengthening of the cedi has reduced the cost of some items, customers mostly come to ask for prices and then leave without buying,” she lamented.
Despite the challenges, some traders indicated that they are making modest sales and remain hopeful that patronage will improve as Christmas draws closer.
They appealed to customers to take advantage of the current prices, stressing that further price reductions are unlikely.
Traders urged shoppers who are delaying purchases in anticipation of lower prices to buy now as they prepare for the Christmas celebrations.
