The Hindu : Kerala News : Kochi lukewarm to night shopping

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Sunday, Aug 26, 2007
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Kerala

Kochi lukewarm to night shopping

Night shopping seems to have evoked mixed response among Kochiites. Though launched with huge fanfare, shopping during night hours might take more time to catch up, going by the initial reaction.

Says Joe, a researcher: “I have seen night shopping at its peak in Bangalore and Mumbai. There is a huge flow of customers into the well-lit streets and trading houses. Somehow, night shopping in Kochi does not live up to these expectations.R 21;

Agrees Manoj Reghunath, a marketing professional in the city: “I wanted to get a feel of the trading activities during the night. But, majority of the people spotted at the M.G. Road and nearby places were not engaged in shopping, but were busy watching the live programmes in front of shopping houses.”

Business hours might have gone up but customers feel that the employees, especially in textile houses, were finding it difficult to cope with the stretched schedule.

Points out Mahesh, a management professional, “Shop owners should introduce a late night shift to attract crowds. Employees, who are forced to stretch their working hours, are in a hurry to finish off work and leave.”

Night shopping has also added to the woes of the police personnel.

They have to be extra vigilant during night hours. Police patrolling was strengthened after night shopping was introduced in the city from Wednesday.

But the traders sound optimistic about the new venture.

G. Krishnakumar

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