Electricity tariff: Customers desert Enugu ShopRite Mall, as air conditioners go off

Enugu ShopRite which used to be the number one shopping point in the Enugu Coal City is gradually becoming a shadow of its old self.

The departure of ‘Games’ one of the major occupants and marketers in the complex has been identified as one of the major factors dragging the Enugu ShopRite back as customers look elsewhere for their daily shopping.
Games which deals on electronics, furniture and other household equipment was a major attraction at the Enugu ShopRite. Their departure no doubt slowed traffic into the complex.
Investigations further reveal that the recent increase in electricity tariff may have worsened the situation as the complex which served as an escape from heat and hot weather has suddenly become unconducive as the air-conditioners are turned off to cope with the electricity bills.
The hard economic condition in the country has also played its role as shop owners who find it difficult to cope with the high cost of accommodation within the complex are gradually being forced out.
“The shops are too expensive and people are not meeting up as a result of the current hardship in the country. You find some of the shops locked up. You may think they are coming back, no, the goods inside and the arrears of rent may be competing. Some abandon the shop and escape,” a close source confided in our reporter.
“It’s really bad here. Look around, how many people can you see? People no longer troop in like before. It’s a pity.”
Other shopping complexes that have managed to keep their air conditioners running appear to be benefitting from the poor situation at ShopRite as consumers relocate to a better and more cosy environment.