Gamarra Commerce Emporium, Lima's largest textile outlet, receives about 400,000 people a day during the holiday season, Gamarra Business Association Chairman Diogenes Alva estimated today.
"Customers are interested in the quality and variety of our products, as well as in boosting trade ties; they come not only from Lima and the rest of the country, but also from overseas," he told Andina news agency.
While the shopping mecca normally welcomes 200,000–250,000 customers a day, the number can go up to half a million in peak season.
Thus, Gamarra expects as many as 500,000 shoppers a day next week, and flocks will continue to arrive through the end of December.
"And now, thanks to Gamarra's growing offer of restaurants, customers can spend the whole day Christmas shopping," he added.
Sales
Likewise, Alva estimated end-of-year sales will exceed S/500 million (about US$147 million). Likewise, total year sales are expected to reach S/1.32 billion (about US$387 million), a 20% increase compared to 2015.
To facilitate sales, Gamarra businesses bet on inter-connection with banks.
"This increases sales, as customers usually use their bank cards for shopping," he explained.
Preferences
When it comes to shopping for presents, Gamarra-goers go for garments.
"They look for utilitarian presents for this season," Alva stressed.
Most-demanded products are clothes for children, followed by blouses and pants for adults.
Foreign buyers
Regarding international buyers, main foreign customers come from Cuba, Ecuador, Colombia and Chile. They mainly purchase children's clothing.
Gamarra emporium gathers more than 17,000 manufacturers in 44 blocks of Lima's La Victoria district. The Christmas campaign generates employment for 200,000 people.
Peruvian families' average spending in Gamarra is S/500 (about US$147).
(END) SDD/MDV/DHT/MVB