As Ramadan begins, Kuwait’s markets experience a sharp rise in demand for food and consumer goods, marked by increased traffic and consumer activity. Reports indicate a 37% rise in sales, with cooperative societies offering discounts and promotions to accommodate shoppers. Consumers express appreciation for government efforts to stabilize prices during this peak shopping season.
As the holy month of Ramadan commenced, Kuwait’s markets witnessed a significant surge in demand for food and consumer goods traditionally associated with this time of year. Traffic congestion around markets was prevalent, with many shoppers, both citizens and residents, actively participating in purchasing essential items.
A visit to cooperative societies and central markets revealed expected traffic jams as shoppers hurried to fill their carts with various products, including pastries, pasta, cold beverages, meat, chicken, and vegetables. Reports indicated a 37% increase in sales leading up to Ramadan compared to previous weeks.
One shopper, Abu Khaled, shared, “I shop early every year to avoid unexpected price hikes and ensure the availability of basic products.” However, he decided to shop later this year due to national holiday celebrations. Meanwhile, Umm Fahd, a housewife, expressed concerns about price discrepancies among cooperatives, stating, “Some cooperatives offer real discounts, while others raise prices and then offer so-called discounts.”
In response to the growing demand, cooperative societies have introduced special offers, including free purchase coupons and discounts on essential Ramadan items. Ahmed Zayed, Manager of Al-Shamiya and Shuwaikh Cooperative Society Market, revealed that shareholders received 120 dinars in purchase coupons, which included basic Ramadan goods and a vegetable basket for only 2 dinars.
The Central Market at Jahra Cooperative Society also prepared extensively for the season by ensuring adequate stock and promotional deals to alleviate consumer spending. Notably, the Rawda and Hawally Cooperative Society launched coupons worth 80 dinars, alongside discounts of up to 50% on numerous items.
Consumers expressed gratitude for the government’s measures to control prices and the Ministry of Commerce’s regulation efforts, stating that these actions help stabilize the market and protect consumer rights. They acknowledged that while some pricing might be influenced by exchange rate fluctuations, promotions offered by societies have helped mitigate overall expenses.
The bustling scenes at cooperative societies and parallel central markets, featuring long queues at cash registers, reflected the strong demand for Ramadan essentials. Consumers were particularly attracted to promotional offers that enhanced their shopping experience.
Most popular items during this Ramadan season include cold drinks such as Vimto, orange juice, and milk, as well as important breakfast ingredients like pasta, pastries, and traditional dishes like harees and jareesh. Key products also include ragag bread, oatmeal soup, and essential cooking oils.
In conclusion, the commencement of Ramadan in Kuwait has led to a marked increase in market activity, demonstrated by heavy consumer spending on food items and necessities. Cooperative societies have proactively responded with special offers to meet this heightened demand, while government initiatives help maintain price stability. The long queues and bustling activity at the markets underscore the significance of this holy month in the Kuwaiti community.
Original Source: www.arabtimesonline.com
