Unpredictable weather may have dampened the opening days of the FMF Hibiscus Festival, but vendors are now seeing business pick up as crowds return to the festival grounds.
Speaking to some vendors yesterday, many said sales were initially slow during the first few days as rain and changing weather kept some customers away.
However, with the festival now gaining momentum, traders said foot traffic had improved, and sales were beginning to pick up.
For Elena Cagibula of Cagibula Investments, the improvement has been noticeable after a quieter start.
“Monday it was a bit slow, but yesterday and today we caught up, and I know we’ll get there,” she said.
Vendors selling local food, handmade crafts and festival merchandise reported steady interest, with family groups and repeat customers helping sustain trade.
One business reported the response from customers had remained encouraging.
“Business has been booming for us; our customers love it, and support is there,” said Akshay Kumar of Grillenium Enterprises.
With just two days of the festival still ahead, vendors remain hopeful that improving crowds will translate into stronger sales — rain or shine.
