2011年5月27日星期五

GSS starts tomorrow

Brisk sales even before GSS starts tomorrow

THE annual Great Singapore Sale (GSS) starts tomorrow but, for some retailers, the shopping frenzy began at least two weeks ago.

Businesses eager to step up their revenue during the two- month-long shopping season have been rolling out early discounts. Retailers say they are riding on the buoyant spending mood and shoppers' pent-up desire to splurge.

The latest figures from the Department of Statistics show a 7 per cent jump in retail sales, excluding that of motor vehicles, in March over the same month a year ago.

Ms Eleanor Chin, head of brand and values at The Body Shop Singapore, said: "By starting our sale early on May 16, we can capture sales from consumers who are ready to spend but are holding back...until the sale officially starts."

Eyewear chain Capitol Optical's GSS promotion was launched on May 14, to drum up excitement among shoppers. The chain's general manager, Mr Stanley Chan, said: "In the optical industry, unlike the fashion industry, consumers do not rush down to the shops to grab the best bargains."

Retailers interviewed said they are not worried that the early promotions will cause the sale to lose steam quickly, as new offerings will be rolled out throughout the sale period to sustain shoppers' interest.

They added that they expect a jump in spending over last year's GSS, when retail sales raked in $5.3 billion, as the economy is improving and tourist arrivals remain robust.

~THE STRAITS TIMES~

没有评论:

发表评论