On major streets such as Cach Mang Thang Tam, Truong Chinh, Ly Thuong Kiet..., a series of moon cake kiosks have been set up, hanging promotional boards for buying 3 gifts, giving a discount of 20-30%, but the number of customers coming is sparse. Many evening outlets have only a few buyers.
This year, many businesses have promoted livestreaming, affiliate marketing and expanded modern sales systems, replacing traditional forms of roadside stalls.
Ms. Hoang Ngoc Anh - owner of a booth on Cach Mang Thang Tam Street shared: "This year the number of customers has decreased significantly, many people only bought a few boxes for friends and family. We have to apply many promotional programs but revenue is still lower than the same period last year.
According to traders, the main reason for the decrease in purchasing power is due to economic pressure, many families choose to buy less or make moon cakes at home to save costs.
Meanwhile, Mr. Tran Van Minh (residing in Binh Thanh Ward) said: "Mid-Autumn Festival cakes can now be easily bought at grocery stores, supermarkets or kiosks on the street. I often choose branded cakes, sell them in reputable places as gifts, but only buy small quantities, mainly for the whole family to eat and enjoy.
A survey at some supermarkets shows that moon cakes on shelves are still full. Some supermarkets have applied deep discount policies to stimulate purchasing power.
In contrast to the lack of customers at many points of sale, some traditional moon cake making facilities in Saigon and Cho Lon areas are always bustling. Although there are no promotional signs or discounts, buyers still patiently queue until night to wait to buy traditional cakes.
Ms. Kieu Thao (Cho Lon ward) said: "My family has been used to buying cakes at a traditional shop in Cho Lon for many years. The cake is not only more delicious and less sweet but also retains its traditional flavor. Although I had to wait in line for quite a while, I felt it was worth it.
