Plastic ponchos from $5 and boots up to $18: this is how trade is moving due to the rains in downtown Guayaquil
In Guayaquil, as rains intensify, local vendors are experiencing a surge in demand for rain gear like plastic ponchos, boots, and umbrellas, with prices ranging from $5 to $18.
Since the Carnival holiday, when rain intensified in Guayaquil, the local trade has seen a shift in the offerings available in stores. On March 6 street, plastic ponchos, which were previously stored away, are now prominently displayed in vibrant colors at shop entrances, and rubber boots are organized by size on the floor, indicating a strong demand for rainy weather gear amongst locals and visitors alike.
At Commercial Thalía, vendor Luis Sánchez shares insights into the recent sales pitch, noting that hoods and ponchos retail at $5, while protective shoe covers are priced at $10. Wider models known as 'batonas', which offer greater coverage, are available for $18. The merchandise caters not only to pedestrians but also to motorcyclists, with waterproof jackets and pants, along with boots for motorbike riders reaching up to $18, thus indicating the diverse needs of consumers during the rainy season.
As the rainy season continues, prices for umbrellas start from $5 for foldable versions, reflecting the growing urgency for protective gear among the population. This increase in rain gear commerce highlights the economic adaptability of local vendors in response to environmental changes, ensuring that they meet the immediate needs of their customers during this unfavorable weather period.