The Tribune

by Natario McKenzie

Tribune Business Reporter

nmckenzie@tribunemedia.net

BAHAMIAN retailers yesterday expressed concern that the trajectory of Tropical Storm Dorian could impact this weekend's "back-to-school" sales rush which would impact increased sales in recent months.

Traditionally, the back-to-school shopping period is viewed as the second busiest of the year for many retailers behind the Christmas season.

Audrika Glinton, marketing coordinator at Bahamas Office and School Supplies (BOSS) told Tribune Busines: "For us there has been increased activity and sales over last year. It has been pretty busy. It stated in late July through August and the closer we get to the opening of the schools the busier it gets."

Glinton further said partnering with local companies and utilising different marketing techniques has "really helped our sales this year".

Charmaine Daley, manager at John's and Accessories on Carmichael Road, told Tribune Business: "Back to school has been pretty steady. People are still dong their shipping. We are seeing a lot of last minute shoppers and we expect to see more of that as we go into the weekend weather permitting. Hopefully the weather holds up."

Shantell Rolle, manager at Brass & Leather's Mall at Marathon location said: "Sales at the mall are up from last year."

Tara Morely, co-chair of the Bahamas Federation of Retailers noted local retailers are concerned about the trajectory of Dorian interfering with sales for the back to school final Saturday.

Tropical Storm Dorian is expected to become a Category 1 hurricane as it approaches Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic tomorrow and Thursday. By the end of the week, what's left of Dorian is expected to move toward The Bahamas and possibly southeastern parts of the mainland US, bringing wind and rain.