Tailors bemoan “worst Yuletide ever”, many may be forced to close shop
Tailors in Benue are lamenting unusually low patronage in the run up to Christmas and New Year celebrations this year as economic hardship buffeting families compels them to scrape funds just for feeding and other essentials, with nothing left to indulge in the luxury of sowing new clothes.
Some tailors in Makurdi on Monday described the 2024 Yuletide as the worst period for their business in recent years, according to reporting by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).
One of them, John Agbe, said the harsh economic situation has forced many customers to prioritise basic needs over non-essential services like sewing new clothes.
“As a result, many tailoring shops are now empty, with few or no customers placing orders for new clothes or accessories,” he recounted.
“The low patronage has not only affected the tailors’ livelihoods but also their ability to provide for their families during the festive period.
“Many tailors are now struggling to make ends meet, and some may be forced to close their shops temporarily or permanently if the situation does not improve.”
Another tailor, Ruth Ahii, said their condition has got to a critical stage and urged the government and other stakeholders to provide support and relief to help them navigate the difficult period.
Ahii affirmed they believe that with the right assistance, tailors could continue to provide services and contribute to the local economy.
Joseph Jeremiah corroborated her views, saying people now have less disposable income to spend on non-essential items, including clothing.
“Consumers are prioritising essential expenses, such as food, rent, and utilities, over discretionary spending on clothes,” he said.
“The economic downturn has led to a decrease in demand for clothing, resulting in fewer orders from customers.
“The economic situation has made it challenging for tailors to source high-quality materials at affordable prices, thereby further reducing their profit margins.”
– NAN
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