Last-minute shoppers throng shoes stores, panjabi outlets
Most of the traders satisfied about customer turnouts and sales compared to last year
Dhaka dwellers today crowded the malls and markets for panjabis and shoes as Bangladesh is set to celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr Friday.
In the last-minute shopping, women were found buying imitation jewellery in Gawsia market.
But the crowd has turned a bit thin compared to the past couple of days. The sellers said most of the people have already completed their shopping. Yet they are expecting some buyers in the evening.
"Matching with my outfit, I came to buy jewelry as well as panjabi for my father," said Laboni Akhter, a resident of Hatirpool.
In the meantime, a huge crowd was seen at Bata Signal of Elephant road – the hub for footwears. Mostly men were found buying shoes.
Monirul Islam, a footwear seller, said, "Now we are selling shoes for men mainly. Ladies' shoes and children's items have already been sold days ago."
Saidul Islam of Maa Shoes store said, "We could bring some fashionable product during the lockdown, and the sales were also quite good."
"At first, I thought I would not shop. But later I changed my mind," said Rezwan at Hawkers' Market.
Robiul Islm of Louho Jang shop said they have sold more than their expectation this year amid the pandemic.
Another salesman of Gentle Park in Bashundhara City said their business was good for the last five days. "We had some issues about providing the customers with their desired sizes."
"Sales were good like the pre-pandemic time. Our shop was open until 12am last night," he added.
Md Helal Uddin, president of Bangladesh Shop Owners Association, said, "The overall sales at shopping malls are not good. Everyone is just trying to survive."