Relief as uniform prices fall

Abigail Mawonde Herald Reporter
The price of school uniforms has dropped significantly this term compared to the same period last year, bringing huge relief to most parents who are facing serious financial challenges. Many uniform dealers have also come up with credit terms to cushion parents.

A survey by The Herald last week, revealed that many shops marked down their prices aiming at attracting customers during this period when demand is usually high.

A shop trading in shoes that cannot be named for professional reasons had reduced price by US$12 from US$28 to US$16 per pair. Jerseys for both primary and secondary pupils are ranging between US$8 and US$18, down from US$27 and US$37 charged during the same period last year.

Skirts, shirts, shorts and blouses are ranging between US$7 and US$15. Neck ties and hats are pegged at US$4 from an average US$8 last year.

Dresses for junior level are ranging from US$19 to US$21 while senior girls’ dresses cost US$23, down from about US$30, while tracksuits are ranging between US$19 and US$31, down from US$38 last year.

However, the price reduction of blazers has not been significant as they are still ranging between US$50 and US$59.

Majority of the parents said they were happy that at least some retailers were now realising that they can make more money by selling more units at low prices.

“We are happy as shoppers this year because prices have considerably gone down compared to last year. A dollar or two saved, makes a difference,” Ms Caroline Rujeko of Budiriro.

Economic analyst, Dr Gift Mugano, said the price reduction on uniforms was a result of the current liquidity crunch.

“The shopping mood for consumers has been very low due to liquidity problems. There has been subdued demand of commodities since circulation of money is limited and so for anyone in the business sector, they know that they would rather sell at the right price without looking at maximising profits than to have goods sell slowly,” he said.

Consumer Council of Zimbabwe executive director Ms Rosemary Siyachitema, said this was a happy moment for most parents as prices for school uniforms had gone down significantly.

“There is a good reduction in terms of prices of school uniforms as compared to January 2014. This is indeed a happy moment for parents,” she said.

Ms Siyachitema, however, said it was unfortunate that the prices were still high compared to the region.

“If we are to compare our prices with that of other countries in the region, we will find out that our prices are still generally high.”

In South Africa, some shirts and shorts are sold between US$4 and US$6, while very few items go beyond US$10.

Some retail shops have since started offering credit facilities due to stiff competition.

An employee of a company who spoke on condition of anonymity, said offering credit facilities had become vital in keeping the company going.