London’s leading daily for professionals, City A.M., in its issue dated 13 th October has pointed out that UK retailers are missing a trick by ignoring the most important Asian festivals of Diwali and Eid which are akin to Christmas for the community. During Diwali around 1.3 million Hindus and Sikhs in the UK look for ways to spend generously on a diverse range of goods including clothes, food, white goods, cars, jewellery, home furnishing, hampers and gift items, just as the country's 3Million Muslims do during Eid. Spends on eating out and travel destinations too see a spurt during these festivities.
Quoting research by confectioner Ferrero, the publication stated that more than 70 per cent of retailers sold more chocolate boxes near Diwali and Eid but failed to actively engage with them during that period. As researched by Asian Voice, the Asian community does not hold back during the Christmas season either, and the retailers may well bear that in mind while drawing up plans during the November and December months. “In a competitive sector, finding an edge is essential and the UK’s diverse population and proliferation of events could provide plenty of opportunities”, states City A.M.
