ISLAMABAD (PEN) : As Eid approaches, shoppers in Lahore are facing the harsh reality of inflation, with sluggish business activity casting a shadow over the festive season. Despite the usual excitement and anticipation for Eid shopping, the high prices of everyday items have dampened consumer enthusiasm, particularly among the salaried class.
Challenges of Inflation for Consumers
Eid shopping, typically a booming business during Ramadan, has been slow this year due to the soaring prices and diminishing purchasing power. In the past, shopping activity would peak in the days leading up to Eid, particularly on Chand Raat, but this year, fewer people are flocking to the markets.
The salaried class is the hardest hit by inflation. The minimum monthly wage in Pakistan is set at Rs 37,000, but not all employers meet this threshold, leaving many workers struggling to make ends meet. With the rising cost of essential goods, utility bills, and house rent, it has become nearly impossible for these individuals to afford Eid shopping.
One shopper lamented, “I can hardly buy anything for myself, but I try to get something for my children.” It is evident that many are making sacrifices, focusing their spending on their children’s needs rather than their own.
Flea Markets No Longer a Bargain
Flea markets, once a haven for those on tight budgets, have also seen a shift. Traditionally, places like Landa Bazaars were affordable shopping destinations for the lower-middle class, offering second-hand clothing and other items at budget-friendly prices. However, this year, flea markets have increasingly been overtaken by brand-conscious buyers who are willing to pay high prices for popular items.
One shopper, who had been a regular visitor to Haji Camp’s flea market before the pandemic, shared his frustration: “What used to be an affordable place to shop has now become out of reach for those of us struggling with the high cost of living.” The rise in demand for branded second-hand goods has led to price hikes, further limiting the shopping options for low-income families.
Shopkeepers have also attributed the high prices to various factors, including the increased cost of renting stalls, taxes, and the expense of importing second-hand goods. “We face pressure from the authorities for monthly payments to avoid disruptions in business,” one vendor explained.
The Divide in Shopping Habits
As the divide between the wealthy and the economically vulnerable widens, traditional shopping hubs like Panorama Centre, Anarkali Bazaar, and Liberty have become virtually inaccessible for people with limited income. These shopping centers cater to more affluent buyers, making them out of reach for many in the lower-income brackets.
A local trader from Naulakha Bazaar noted, “The influx of wealthy shoppers into flea markets has made it harder for those in need to find affordable items. We’ve seen the prices of second-hand goods skyrocket.”
Looking Ahead to Eid
As Eid draws nearer, the economic struggles faced by many shoppers remain evident. The soaring cost of living has cast a pall over what is usually a time of joy and celebration. While families may still manage to buy gifts for their children, many are unable to fully partake in the festivities, forced to cut back on personal indulgences due to economic constraints.
With inflation continuing to affect day-to-day life, the future of affordable shopping in Lahore’s markets remains uncertain. However, the resilience of consumers and small traders continues to shape the landscape as they navigate the challenging economic environment.
