As the festive season draws near, supermarkets nationwide are bustling with activity, thoroughly stocked to meet the demands of the holiday rush. Vishwa Nadan, the manager of Rajendra’s Foodtown Supermarket, notes that customer purchasing patterns this year remain consistent with those of previous festive seasons. The top-selling items include chicken, juice, ice cream, meats, and snacks, making them staples in shoppers’ carts during this time.
“We have built up our stock for the year like we do every year, as we prepare for the busy festive season and Christmas sale,” Mr. Nadan said. He also highlighted the popularity of sausages and fruitcakes among customers, indicating that these items continue to be in high demand.
To further entice shoppers, numerous promotions are actively running. The festive spirit is not limited to local customers; people from various islands like Kadavu, Lau, and Rotuma are traveling to Suva to stock up on essential goods. Mr. Nadan observed that as the school breaks commence, island shoppers flock into the city, purchasing items in bulk and packing them for transport back home. Supermarket staff are assisting in the packaging process to ensure these islanders are fully prepared for their celebrations.
Given the unpredictable weather conditions, Mr. Nadan urges shoppers not to panic and to spend wisely during this festive period. He emphasizes the importance of enjoying the atmosphere while shopping safely and hopes for clearer weather.
In Suva, the retail landscape is also shifting gears for the festive season. Jitesh Patel, president of the Suva Retail Association, mentioned that the conclusion of Diwali marks the unofficial start of the Christmas shopping period. Shops are adorned with festive decorations, and restaurants are ready to welcome more shoppers and families. With school holidays commencing, businesses expect a surge in foot traffic.
“This year, we have noticed some customers starting their back-to-school shopping early to avoid the January rush, while others are focusing on Christmas gifts and workplace exchanges,” Mr. Patel explained. He anticipates that the usual pattern of steady shopping activity throughout December will continue this year, culminating in a significant increase in last-minute shopping before many families depart for holiday celebrations in villages or on islands.
Ensuring safety during this busy season is a priority for retailers. Mr. Patel reassured customers that the city is well-prepared, with enhanced security measures and increased police presence to guarantee a secure shopping experience. He encourages shoppers to communicate any issues they may encounter to store managers, as retailers are dedicated to providing excellent customer service.
As Suva’s business community unites to celebrate the festive season, the overarching message remains: come to town, soak in the festivities, and enjoy a Merry Christmas along with enjoyable shopping experiences.
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