Despite slashing prices with significant discounts, domestic clothing brands in Bangladesh are experiencing disappointing Eid sales, indicating a challenging period for the Taka 2,000 crore Eid wear market.
Industry insiders reveal that local brands traditionally hold an 80 per cent share of the Eid wear market, with non-branded items accounting for around 20 per cent. However, this year’s festivities have seen lower consumer interest and sales volumes, even with aggressive price reductions.
Several factors are contributing to the sluggish performance. Retailers report decreased footfall at outlets and showrooms, especially in major cities like Dhaka, Chittagong, and Rajshahi, as well as in rural and suburban areas. Consumers are increasingly shifting towards unbranded or fast-fashion options and turning to online shopping for imported and foreign clothing. Economic pressures, including inflation and delayed salary disbursements in some sectors, have also reduced consumers’ purchasing power. Many shoppers are browsing collections but delaying purchases or opting for cheaper online or local alternatives.
Market analysts suggest that these trends reflect broader economic uncertainty and changing shopping behaviors, intensified by rising competition from online retailers. The decline poses a threat to small and mid-sized garment retailers, many of whom depend heavily on Eid sales for their annual profits.
As the Eid shopping season concludes, industry experts warn that if this pattern persists, it could have lasting negative impacts on Bangladesh’s local fashion industry, leaving many entrepreneurs concerned about the future prospects of the market in 2025.
