Clothing stores hold early sales to address falling demand

AMMAN — Garment stores in Amman have initiated sales early this season due to weak demand, Garment Traders Association (GTA) President Sultan Allan said on Tuesday. 

Shopkeepers usually hold sales in February, but they started in December and January, because “there is a severe slowdown in business activity this season,” he told The Jordan Times over the phone.

Clothing sales decreased by 30 per cent in 2015 compared to 2014 and have been dropping every year since 2012, according to Allan.

He cited regional instability and financial constraints facing consumers as the main factors that had a negative impact on the garment business. 

“[Shopkeepers] complain that people only buy from them during sales. Many of them are planning to reduce the area of their shops and this is a dangerous indication.” 

The sector leader highlighted intense competition as another cause of shopkeepers’ difficulties.

“Taxes imposed on this sector are also high and this has increased prices. There is an urgent need to boost the sector by introducing a good marketing plan,” added Allan, who also called for regulating the online market.

The GTA president said there are 7,000 garment stores in Jordan and 11,700 shops selling clothes, accessories and shoes at the same venue. 

“We are working on a plan with the Ministry of Industry and Trade to also organise sales and their seasons,” he added.