Retailers in Ho Chi Minh City have reported both higher sales and prices of flowers ahead of International Women’s Day (March 8) as people are willing to pay to celebrate their women.

Imported rose prices have spiked by about 20-30 percent compared to normal days while those grown domestically also cost two to three times higher, as observed by Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper reporters.

Flower sales rise despite higher prices

Tieu Hoang Bao Han, manager of Happy Flower florist's in Ho Chi Minh City, expected that the shop’s sales would be double that of Valentine’s Day (February 14), with its products fetching from VND700,000 (US$30) to VND3 million ($131).

In preparation for that, Han’s shop has hired twice as many delivery workers as normal, besides its 20 fixed-term employees.

Nguyen Hoang Viet, owner of Hoa Noi florist’s in Ho Chi Minh City’s District 1, said his customers have not waited until the day, but instead placed orders ahead of time with delivery dates scheduled for Sunday and Monday.

Many customers even made orders as early as February to enjoy cheaper prices and a variety of selections.

Viet added that the net costs of imported flowers have been on the rise due to the spikes of fuel prices and freight, as well as high demand since International Women’s Day is observed globally.

The closer it gets to the commemorative day, the higher the prices get, according to Vo Duy Khanh, owner of Flowers Paradise florist’s in Ho Chi Minh City.

Gift market focuses on promotions

In a stark contrast to the flower market, gift items, such as cosmetics, jewelry, and clothes, have been offered with price reductions and abundant forms of sales promotions.

Discounts vary from ten to 50 percent while sales promotions come in the form of 'buy 1 get 1 free' or 'buy 2 get 1 free.'

In addition, household appliances and electronic products have been desirable gifts for International Women’s Day this year.

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