Houseware market faces downturn in Ramadan — syndicate chief

AMMAN — Ramadan this year has seen a decrease in demand for houseware products and supplies, President of the Houseware Traders and Producers Syndicate Feras Habnaka said on Saturday.

Habnaka attributed the downturn to a volatile and weak consumer sentiment amid ongoing economic challenges, noting that customers are becoming more price-sensitive, prioritising the purchase of basic necessities over housewares.

Habnaka also emphasised the need for financial institutions to consider postponing loan repayments. He also pointed out that traders and sector operators are struggling to meet their financial obligations, suggesting that lowering interest rates could provide much-needed liquidity to investors.

Khalifa Asad, a housewares shop owner, told The Jordan Times that while most houseware shops are experiencing a slump in business, those with a strong social media presence are seeing active commercial traffic.

Asad also reported a drop in sales of at least 30 per cent since the onset of Ramadan, adding that he hopes that demand will pick up in the coming days as people prepare for the Eid celebration.

Qais Manaseer, an employee at a houseware store, said that small electric kitchen appliances, pots, Ramadan table decorations, and food storage containers are currently the best-selling products during the holy month of Ramadan.

Manaseer added that summer is typically a time when demand increases significantly, as many couples prepare for their new homes. He also expressed optimism that sales would rise by the end of Ramadan and the beginning of April.