SOME business groups have expressed mixed views on the outlook on sales over Christmas.
In a statement on December 23, Chaguanas Chamber of Commerce president Baldath Maharaj said the Christmas shopping season in Chaguanas had been vibrant, with businesses reporting steady sales and strong foot traffic.
"Our commercial hub continues to attract shoppers from across Trinidad, drawn by a diverse mix of retail options, competitive pricing, and a festive atmosphere. Many stores have seen an uptick in consumer spending as families prepare for the holidays, purchasing gifts, decor and essentials for the season."
Maharaj was pleased that many stores had seen an uptick in consumer spending on gifts, decorations and other essentials for the Christmas season.
"This is a positive sign, showing that despite economic challenges, the Christmas spirit remains alive, and consumer confidence is holding steady."
The overall feedback about business activity over the season in Chaguanas is good, but Maharaj said some sectors were doing better than others.
[caption id="attachment_1128372" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Police officers speak to a driver while on patrol on High Street, San Fernando, on December 23.[/caption]
"While clothing, home goods and electronics remain popular categories, other areas, such as speciality and luxury items, are experiencing slower sales."
He attributed that partially to ongoing competition from online shopping.
But Maharaj said businesses had sought to counter that challenge by stepping up with attractive discounts, promotions and enhanced customer experiences.
The chamber, he continued, remains committed to supporting businesses in maximising the critical sales period before Christmas.
"We have worked with local authorities to improve traffic management and security, ensuring shoppers can move freely and feel safe in Chaguanas during the bustling season."
Maharaj said by encouraging customers to shop local, the chamber believed it would boost the efforts of small and medium businesses to increase sales before Christmas.
"We are hopeful that as we approach the final stretch of the season, sales momentum will continue contributing to a successful and prosperous Christmas for all."
Also on December 23, Greater San Fernando Chamber of Commerce president Kiran Singh said there had been an increase of commercial activity in San Fernando since the school term closed earlier in the month.
"Of course, retailers will experience the highest sales for the year during this season.
"It is expected that sales figures for this year may surpass the last two years. Public servants, along with some other, private-sector employees, have been paid early for Christmas, so we anticipate the tempo to steadily increase as we get closer to Christmas Day."
[caption id="attachment_1128371" align="alignnone" width="1024"] A vendor tends to a customer as he sells clothes on High Street, San Fernando, on December 23.[/caption]
Evidence of increasing Christmas sales, he said, could be seen in t
