This transition from vacation mode to preparation for academics is marked by a significant annual event: welcome back students and back to school shopping. Let’s dive into why this early shopping trend is taking hold and which items are becoming must-haves on every parent’s list.
The Early Rush for Classroom Supplies
Why Parents are Shopping Early?
First and foremost, the lingering effects of supply chain disruptions have made parents wary. Many are keen to avoid the shortages experienced in previous years, where popular items sold out long before school started. Another motivating factor is the desire to spread out expenses. By shopping early, parents can manage their budgets better, taking advantage of sales and avoiding a large one-time expenditure as the school year approaches.
Additionally, shopping early allows parents to ensure they get the exact items on their children’s supply lists, which are often very specific. There’s also a psychological element at play—getting school shopping done early can reduce stress and give families more time to enjoy the last days of summer without the cloud of preparation hanging over them.
Popular Classroom Supplies in Demand
Items such as notebooks, pens, and uniforms are among the top purchases for early shoppers. The prices of classroom supplies in DTI’s “Gabay sa Pamimimli ng School Supplies” are listed below:
| Items | Price |
|---|---|
| Notebook | P11.8 - P52 |
| Pad paper for Grades 1-4 | P9.5 - P61 |
| Intermediate pad paper | P13.8 - P48.75 |
| Pencils | P11 - P33 |
| Ballpens | P3 - P33 |
| Box of crayons with eight colors | P12 (regular) - P65 (jumbo) |
| Crayon pack (12-color) Crayon pack (16-color) Crayon pack (24-color) | P32P24 - P83P34 - P114 |
| Sharpeners | P15 - P69 |
| Rulers | P16 - P29 |
| Erasers | P4.5 - P20 |
These are still the popular school items and DTI said 80 out of 117 stock-keeping units (SKUs) kept its prices from last year. Their prices increased for around 28 items and decreased for nine items.
However, there’s also a significant increase in demand for tech-related products. This includes USB drives, tablets, and even laptops, as many schools continue to integrate digital learning tools into their curriculum.
Divisoria: The Go-To Place for Classroom Supplies
Why Divisoria is a Popular Choice
Divisoria is known for its affordable prices and wide variety of classroom supplies, attracting thousands of parents every year. Divisoria’s popularity stems from its vast array of affordable goods. It is really welcome back students – from notebooks and pencils to bags and uniforms, shoppers can find everything they need for back to school season in one place. This market’s unique structure allows small vendors to sell items at lower prices compared to mainstream retail outlets.
Easily accessible by public transportation from most areas of Metro Manila, Divisoria attracts a diverse crowd of buyers.
Price Comparison: Divisoria vs. Other Markets
When it comes to price, Divisoria consistently undercuts other markets and commercial retailers. For example, a set of generic notebooks can cost about 30% less in Divisoria than in a mall-based stationery store.
Bulk buying options further reduce costs, with many vendors offering wholesale prices that decrease per unit as the quantity purchased increases.
Comparatively, other local markets and even some department stores might offer similar products but rarely match the low price points of Divisoria. This pricing advantage is particularly crucial for budget-conscious families who prioritize savings without compromising on the quantity and variety of classroom supplies shopping needed for the school year.
Impact of Early Shopping on Local Businesses
By choosing to purchase goods and services ahead of peak seasons, consumers not only secure better deals but also provide crucial support to local economies during off-peak times. This practice can lead to a lot of benefits for both vendors and the local community as a whole.
SEE ALSO:
- School Calendar This Year: Shorten By 15 Days
- Back to School, Back to Basics: Mastering Season Logistics
- Challenges and Opportunities for Back to School Supplies Delivery
Tips for Parents Shopping in Divisoria
Best Times to Shop to Avoid Crowds
The best times to shop in Divisoria to avoid the largest crowds are early on weekday mornings. Most stores and stalls are open by 8 AM. Shopping early allows you to explore in a somewhat less crowded environment, as the bulk of the crowd usually starts to swell around late morning.
Bargaining Tips for Getting the Best Deals
Knowing how to negotiate and being familiar with average prices can help shoppers secure the best deals.
Bargaining is an art in Divisoria, and a few strategic tips can help you secure the best deals:
- Start Early: Take advantage of this superstition by starting your bargaining early in the day.
- Be Polite but Firm: Politeness can make vendors more receptive to negotiating. However, be firm with your offer and be prepared to walk away if the price doesn’t meet your expectations.
- Bulk Buys: If you plan on buying multiple items, either for all your kids or together with other parents, mention this up front to leverage a better deal.
- Know the Going Rates: Spend some time browsing different stalls to get a sense of the average prices before you start your serious bargaining.
- Use the Local Language: If you can speak the local language or dialect, use it. This not only shows respect but also often endears you to the vendor, potentially leading to better prices.
By following these tips, you can make your shopping journey in Divisoria not only more fruitful but also more enjoyable, especially when navigating with children in tow.