Peddling for honest living

Author: 
RIMA AL-MUKHTAR | ARAB NEWS
Publication Date: 
Wed, 2010-09-29 03:01

These women peddlers are a popular sight in Jeddah. Carrying suitcases filled with goods, they visit homes and deal only with women buyers who are always eager for something new.
“I am not an educated person, therefore I do not expect a company job. But I need money to support my family,” said Um Omar, a 48-year-old Saudi door-to-door peddler.
“I go to the downtown Balad area of Jeddah where one can buy cheap products. I buy them and then sell to women at their homes … the women who buy from me don’t have the time to visit these shops in the Balad. Sometimes they don’t know about them and ask me for specific items,” she added.
A popular line sold by these door-to-door saleswomen are perfumes, which they buy at wholesale prices. “Women often come here to buy perfumes in bulk. Then sell them on to their friends and families,” said Haidar, a Yemeni salesman at a perfume store in downtown Jeddah. “I give them special prices to ensure they come back,” he added.
“Retail stores that sell perfumes are expensive. A perfume that costs up to SR600 can be bought for less than SR200 at a wholesaler’s store,” said Um Yahya, another door-to-door Saudi peddler.
“I made a deal with one of the shops that sells wholesale perfumes and makeup. They give me special prices in return for telling people about the shop and that I don’t go to anyone else,” she added.
Apart from selling makeup and perfume, these door-to-door peddlers also sell clothing and fabric. “I usually sell simple clothes like pajamas and cotton dresses that I pick specifically for people according to their tastes,” said Maymona Ahmed, a 52-year-old Saudi woman.
“People buy from me as a charity because they know I need the money. They’re in fact helping me by buying clothes from me so I don’t beg,” she added.
“I usually go to cheap fabric shops and buy all sorts of fabric from tailors at good prices,” said Malika, a 43-year-old peddler. “They sometimes phone me and ask for specific fabrics and colors to bring to their homes. I charge more for this service,” she added.
Some peddlers even specialize in designer items. “I’ve been selling designer clothes, handbags and evening dresses for eight years now,” said 21-year-old Maysam. “I was hired by a Saudi businesswomen who travels a lot and buys expensive items which she sells to her friends and neighbors,” she added.
“I’m like her employee, but I only make 5 percent on each item I sell. This makes me eager to sell more and more to generate money.”
Those women who purchase from these door-to-door peddlers say this is a perfect way to shop from home after a busy day at work. “I usually don’t have time to go shopping because as soon as I get back from work I have to be with my children. I have to help them with their homework and cook,” said Hanan Hashim, a 37-year-old teacher. “I always welcome women peddlers as I find it very easy and convenient to look at items at home. They also sell items at reasonable low prices,” she added.

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