Divisoria Vendors Share Struggles w/ Slow Sales Due to Increasing Numbers of Online Shops
CHRISTMAS SALES – Several Divisoria vendors are struggling with slow sales as online shopping grows.
As the Christmas season begins, many Filipinos still head to Divisoria in Manila to hunt for affordable gifts and decorations. The busy streets are usually filled with eager shoppers, but this year, several vendors say the crowd is thinner and the sales are slower than expected.
Some shoppers, like Jelyn Logronio, made time to visit Divisoria early to buy children’s clothing for upcoming school Christmas parties. She shared that prices are lower and the choices are wider, which is why she prefers shopping there.
Another shopper, Maria, took her children along to buy decorations for their home. She happily found a wreath for only P150, hoping to make their house feel more festive this holiday season.
While some bargain hunters continue to visit the area, vendors say that sales this December are noticeably weaker compared to last year. They explained that aside from competing with each other, they now have to face the growing popularity of online shops.
Many buyers choose to order from their phones because it is fast and convenient, although it limits them from checking the items in person.
Stall owners like Nestor shared that online shopping has changed buyer behavior, making it harder for physical stores to keep up. Another vendor, Rossel, added that many Filipinos are struggling financially, which may also be affecting holiday spending.
Toy sellers are experiencing the same challenge. Some say they might have to lower their prices if stocks remain unsold. Items such as battery-operated toys and trendy characters like Tungtungtung Sahur and Ballerina Cappuccina start at around P250, but even these are not moving as quickly as before.
The EcoWaste Coalition urged parents to check if the toys they buy are safe and properly labeled, while the Department of Trade and Industry reminded shoppers that Christmas decorations should have PS or ICC markings.
Despite the slow sales, vendors remain hopeful that more shoppers will arrive as Christmas draws near.
In another post, vendors share mixed earnings during the busy EDSA rally
The social media users expressed their reactions to the slow sales:
