The Tribune

By NATARIO McKENZIE

Tribune Business Reporter

nmckenzie@tribunemedia.net

Retailers yesterday reported a mixed Christmas sales performance, with some seeing strong demand and others suggesting that business was slightly down year-over-year.

Steve Hoffer, chief executive of Hoffer Sport, one of the largest sporting goods retailers in the Bahamas, told Tribune Business that sales activity appeared to be slightly down compared to 2015.

“It wasn’t quite as a busy as I thought it would be, but we’re OK. It was probably down a little bit from last year,” Mr Hoffer said.

“I haven’t had a chance to look at everything but it didn’t feel as busy. We didn’t have that big mad rush that we usually have. I’m pretty sure that it was down a bit.

“We’re always thankful for what we get. Anything helps at this point. As long as we’re making a few dollars and everyone is getting paid, we’re OK. We’re hoping for bigger and better things next year. We’re optimistic that the business will be alright.”

Mr Hoffer said that following the Boxing Day Junknoo parade, business on Bay Street effectively comes to a halt. “After Junkanoo there isn’t much happening downtown,” he added.

“Businesses are all fenced in with the bleachers. There’s limited parking and that sort of thing. Bay Street becomes more of an entertainment centre than a shopping area.”

    One local retailer, speaking on condition of anonymity, told Tribune Business: “I haven’t really looked at the numbers as yet, maybe next week, but I think things were pretty good all things considered.

“With Christmas falling on a Sunday this year we saw a lot of traffic in the days leading up to it, and I think that translated into good sales for us. I can’t really say if we beat last year’s performance, but I wouldn’t be surprised.”

Charmaine Daley, manager at John’s Shoes and Accessories on Carmichael Road ,told Tribune Business: “The last three days down to the wire, we did excellent with business. It was very good despite the economy, VAT and all of that. We had extremely great business. I hope business does well in the new year.”