Chronicle Editor
Nqobile Bhebhe / Flora Sibanda, [email protected]
AS the winter season gracefully descends upon the city of Bulawayo, a noticeable shift takes place. Shopping malls, clothing stores and roadside makeshift shops bustle with activity as people seek winter clothes, blankets and electric heaters. The transition from lighter attire to cozy layers is met with excitement and a sense of preparedness. In the midst of this seasonal transformation, a unique business opportunity arises, attracting both budding entrepreneurs and established retail outlets.
These temporary traders strategically display an array of warm garments and blankets, including second-hand options, capturing the attention of passersby. Among the most sought-after items are jackets, sweaters and wool shirts, catering for individuals from all walks of life. It is in these makeshift shops where low-income individuals find solace as they can acquire affordable warm clothing that safeguards them from the biting cold.
The phenomenon of seasonal businesses has become a thriving trend, offering countless opportunities and unparalleled advantages for aspiring entrepreneurs. Such ventures, which operate exclusively during the winter season, enable business owners to enjoy extended breaks during their off-seasons. They can utilise this valuable time to strategise and devise innovative ways to boost sales for the following year. It is an appealing prospect as it grants respite while fostering a culture of resilience and adaptability.
On the 11th of July, Bulawayo experienced a record-breaking minimum temperature of three degrees Celsius, as confirmed by the Meteorological Services Department. This remarkable event marked the official commencement of winter, prompting a collective realisation among residents that the cold is now with us. Drizzles accompanied the morning, prompting comparisons to European weather. The familiar attire of traditional office wear underwent a transformation as coats, scarves, boots and gloves adorned the streets. Clutching tightly to hot water bottles, individuals sought refuge from the discomfort of the cold.
Despite the temporary inconveniences, the advent of winter brings joy to both emerging entrepreneurs and established retail outlets alike. The demand for warm clothing and appliances skyrockets, leading to a surge in business across shopping malls and makeshift shops throughout the city. The renowned thrift stores, which have become a sanctuary for many Zimbabweans, are a hive of activity as everyone scrambles to acquire an extra jersey or an additional pair of sneakers, ensuring their warmth throughout the season.
The Saturday Chronicle had the opportunity to speak with several local business owners who shared their insights on the recent surge in sales.
Sternford Dube, a thrift businessman operating on 6th avenue expressed his cautious optimism regarding the flourishing business. While he acknowledged the unpredictability of weather patterns, he was pleased to report that his stock of jackets and jerseys had been selling fast.
“This business is tricky because you will order a bag full of jerseys and the weather takes a long time to get cold. But this week has been really good for me because almost all my winter coats were sold out. If I was not scared of the weather switching up on me, I would order another batch but for now I will not do so,” said Sternford.
Martha Siziba, specialising in winter accessories such as kettles, hot water bottles and gloves, experienced a significant boost in business. The demand was unprecedented and her supplies ran out before midday on the first day. Martha acknowledged the bittersweet nature of the winter season for retailers. It was a period of uncertainty, where the bloom of business was never guaranteed. Nevertheless, she celebrated the recent week of increased sales, acknowledging the huge profits it provided.
“Winter is both a blessing and a curse because one can never know if business will bloom or not. But the good thing is that this week we made lots of profits.”
Memory Ngwenya, a resident interviewed in the bustling business centre, spoke of the unavoidable nature of acquiring warm clothing during this cold spell. Caught off guard by the sudden drop in temperatures, she vowed to be better prepared for the next cold season, recognising the unpredictable nature of the weather.
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