The Second-Hand Clothing Dealers Association has expressed deep concern over unexpectedly low sales as the festive season approaches. Despite expectations of a holiday boom, business activities within the association have slowed significantly, leaving members struggling with low customer patronage.
According to Aikens Mensah, an executive member of the association, sales figures for 2025 are trailing far behind those of the same period in 2024.
Interestingly, this decline persists despite a more stable economic environment.
Mr. Mensah noted that while the Ghanaian Cedi has stabilised and traders have drastically reduced their prices, these factors have failed to stimulate market demand.
The price drops have been substantial in an effort to move sales, yet the response from the public remains lukewarm.
“To be frank, sales have drastically reduced despite the stabilization of the Cedi,” Mr. Mensah stated. “We have reduced our prices to the point where a bale of clothing previously sold at GH₵1,700 is now going for GH₵1,000, yet no one is buying.”
He lamented that items traditionally in high demand during this season—such as children’s dresses, cotton wear, and lightweight goods—have seen a particularly sharp drop in sales.
While the current market state is discouraging, the association remains committed to the trade.
Mr. Mensah described 2025 as a “terrible” year for the industry compared to previous years but expressed hope for the future.
“This is a business we love and cannot stop, so we have to hope and pray for a better year in 2026,” he said, asking for new opportunities in the coming year.
“The second-hand clothing industry is known for providing durable and affordable options for the Ghanaian public. The current slump is likely due to diminished purchasing power among consumers rather than a lack of interest in the goods.”
He also took the opportunity to refute assertions that rumors of a possible ban on second-hand clothing have affected sales, clarifying that the issue lies with the economy and consumer spending rather than regulatory fears.
