Slow motion departure in Sicily for the start of the winter sales season. Lots of people out and about in the shopping streets of the major Sicilian cities looking for a bargain, but no crowds at the entrances to the shops.
A few more minutes of waiting when it comes to paying and a greater turnout for the purchase of designer items on sale in branded shops.
According to estimates by commercial operators, there would be a substantial maintenance of last year’s sales level, a season which, however, showed some difficulties.
Among the causes there would be the loss of two days of collection due to the start being postponed to today, while usually, in Sicily, the first day of discounts was January 2nd; in addition to the recent Black Friday offers for the clothing and footwear sectors which have reduced the need for new purchases. At the basis of the missed appointment with the sales there remains the question of the reduction in the purchasing power of families, concentrated on making ends meet and showing caution in spending, after the announcement of the increases in energy prices and, in general, of the dear life. But it is still early to make assessments. We will have to wait at least a week to understand if the bar will mark a positive percentage of sales, given the moderate optimism on the part of traders and trade organisations.