Amdavad Shopping Festival strengthened bond between buyers, sellers: CM Vijay Rupani

Amdavad Shopping Festival met its primary goal of renewing the bond between shopkeepers and buyers, said organizers as the first edition of the shopping festival came to an end on Tuesday. Initial feedback suggests that footfalls and sales rose by about 50 per cent for many shop keepers.

While addressing the closing ceremony, Chief Minister Vijay Rupani said that close to two lakh buyers made purchases during the 12-day festival resulting on sales of about Rs 500 crore. "Vibrant Gujarat Summit and Amdavad Shopping Festival brought vibrancy in cities of Ahmedabad and Gandhinagar," said Rupani. Jayendra Tanna, president of Vibrant Gujarat Shopping Festival Organizing Federation said that the primary aim of bringing footfalls to the shops has been met. "We have been able to impress the buyers that in addition to malls and online shopping, you can get discounts at neighborhood shops as well. Initial estimates indicate that shop keepers witnessed about 50 per cent rise in footfalls and sales during these 12 days," said Tanna.

Inspite of being the first attempt, the fact the idea was appreciated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has given a boost to the morale of organisers and shop keepers.

"The fact that over two lakh buyers found new shopkeepers and shopkeepers found new buyers, was the basic thought behind the festival. Buyers winning lucky draws will renew the faith in traditional shopping," said Tanna.

WHAT NUMBERS SAY

• 17000+ – Retailers registered
   
• 1.57 lakh – Unique families participated
   
• Rs 600 crore+ – business in 12 days
   
• 2.15 lakh – customers registered