Winter season has opened but shopping has not: Winter clothing is burning pockets

The ready-to-wear sector has opened the season with increased prices. While prices for winter clothing have doubled compared to last year, it has been observed that price increases for items such as coats, jackets, and boots have risen up to three times.

The price hikes in branded products, in particular, have drawn attention. According to the report by Türkiye Gazetesi, while it varies from brand to brand, it has been observed that coat and jacket prices start at 2 thousand liras and go up to 7 thousand liras, sweaters start at 1,000 liras and go up to 3 thousand liras, winter velvet or fabric trousers start at 1,500 liras and go up to 4 thousand liras, shirts start at 1,000 liras and go up to 2 thousand liras, and boots start at 2 thousand liras and go up to 5 thousand liras. Consumers are reacting to the hikes. Many people are sharing posts on social media saying, “it is hard to get dressed this winter.”

CITIZENS ARE DOING THEIR WINTER SHOPPING AT THE END OF WINTER

Despite the prices, there is density in some stores, but it is stated that this shopping is for summer clothes. It was said that purchases have increased because fabric trousers that were 2 thousand liras at the beginning of summer have dropped to 500 liras. Store officials said, “People now do their summer shopping at the end of summer and their winter shopping at the end of winter. Because there are discounts of up to 75 percent.” When we asked the store official why prices are so high despite there being no serious increases in input costs such as minimum wage, foreign exchange, and fuel, they explained, “At the beginning of the season, all brands open with high prices, and sales are supported by various campaigns.”

Stating that ready-to-wear brands used to make money during the season, the official said, “In periods when inflation was not this high, brands were making very good money during the season. Consumers wanted to follow fashion and wear ‘first-season products.’ For this reason, sales were quite good. However, due to the cost of living experienced in recent years, people have given up on shopping at the beginning of the season. A very limited segment wears new season items. Most consumers follow the end-of-season and discounts.”

News Source: 12punto