Rain hits Onam sales

The relentless rain on Onam days has dampened the hopes of traders in the state.

Owing to price hike, decrease in purchasing power of the consumers and continuous rain the business was down by 15-20 per cent in the state compared to last year.

 Sectors such as textiles, electronics, home appliances and restaurants are the worst hit.

 “Apart from liquor and milk other businesses were down during the Onam season.

 There were reports from Kambam, Theni and Valparai in Tamil Nadu that owing to lesser demand from Kerala most of the vegetables became stale.



 There was no rush of customers this season because of unexpected rain,” said P L Prakash James, president, Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

 The sales in the electronics and home appliances sector was down by 15-20 percent.

 There were only few takers for the high-end refrigerators, washing machines and air conditioners, said Peter Pittappillil, managing director, Pittappillil Agencies.

 The sales may pick up in the first week of September, he said.

 According to industry estimate, the hotel and restaurant sector has suffered a loss of 20-30 percent in this season.

 When compared to the business in the third week of August, the sale during Onam days has fallen by 35 per cent.

 “Except regular persons the footfall of customers was less in this season.

 Owing to rains people have opted not to travel long distances for food.

 Last year, there was no rain during Onam season.

 Business was down by at least 30 per cent this time,” said Jose Mohan, general secretary, Kerala Hotels and Restaurants Association.

 Though the gold prices have touched a record high during Onam season the yellow metal has become dearer in this season, jewellers said.

 They opined that, considering the investment aspect of the metal people are buying more gold.

 According to sources the gold sales was up by 15 per cent during Onam season and all the big players have encashed the opportunity.

 Ramesh S Pai, managing partner, A Geeri Pai Jewellers said though the rain caused inconvenience for the customers to reach shops, they were ready to buy gold because of the confidence factor.

 The jewellery shops across the state have registered decent growth in sales, he added.