adminA survey by Business Chronicle yesterday revealed that a majority of the youths and adults were flocking to gift outlets to buy different presents for their loved ones.
In an interview, a manager at Cards and Gifts Shop, Mr Ndabenhle Ndlovu said it had become a tradition that gift outlets enjoy brisk business at the beginning of February.
“We are happy with the increased business during this period and we are optimistic that sales will continue to increase as we get close to Valentine’s Day.
“This is the period when people celebrate love. They express their love to their loved ones through gifts,” said Mr Ndlovu.
He encouraged people to express their love for their loved ones on Valentine’s Day by giving them presents.
“The size and monetary value of the presents is insignificant but the gesture coming from the heart is what is important,” he said.
Attendants at This n That gift shop said they had already registered a significant increase in sales and they expected the trend to continue until Valentine’s Day.
“We usually receive increased demand for gifts as Valentine’s Day approaches in comparison to other times of the year when most of our gift sales are based on birthdays and weddings,” said an attendant who preferred not to be named.
She said their shop had already stocked gifts and cards in anticipation of increased business associated with Valentine’s Day celebrations.
“In this busy world we live in, it is wonderful that we have a special day whereby through presents we celebrate love.
“Over the past week we have witnessed an increased demand for fluffy teddy bears, cards, roses and picture frames. Most gift shops wrap presents for free,” she said.
Bongani Ndlovu
Online Reporter