Local traders report ‘great sales’ period

LOCAL traders have reported steady footfall and a ‘fantastic’ sales period as canny shoppers searched for a bargain on the streets of Strabane.

Springboard, a company which analyses customer activity in stores nationally, said footfall had seen the largest decline since 2011, dropping by 8.6 per-cent. It also said Boxing Day was becoming less important as a trading day.

Luckily, that has not been the case around Strabane where retailers have reported a steady footfall and keen interest.

James McGrane, owner of Tru Glory explained it has been a ‘fantastic’ sales period for him.

“Our sales started off extremely well, the first couple of days were especially busy. Those first few days are always the best in a sale and the footfall has remained consistent since we reopened after Christmas. Undoubtedly as January goes on, I expect the footfall to go down, maybe people will be all bargain-ed out, but that’s inevitable in any sale.”

Also delighted with the footfall is Catherine Casey, manageress of New Look, who says sales have been ongoing throughout the month December.

“We began our sales at the beginning of December, offering wee bargains all through the month for our loyal customers. Thankfully, post-Christmas that steady trade has kept going, we’re still busy and with the schools not back there have been a lot of younger shoppers in to see what we have to offer. Strabane people just love the fashion and style.

“We are lucky that things like online shopping and the rising Covid cases have not affected us at all. We are fully Covid compliant in the shop,” she added.

Naveen Sharma, owner of Threads Menswear, also reflected on a positive period.

He explained, “Unlike a lot of other traders, we did not take Boxing Day off as we are a seven-day-a-week business between the two shops, in Strabane and Derry, as well as our online arm GLS Clothing. So, we’re always on the move.

“It’s been going great so far I’m delighted to report. Our main sale on Boxing Day was in the Foyleside branch but the Strabane shop has been doing just as well.

“I’m hoping that the good fortune we are experiencing at the minute continues at least until February, because with the rise in Covid case, a lockdown may not be too far away which would be disastrous for everyone’s business not just our own. We’ll do what we can while we’re still able.”