Sellers of locally made metal trunks in Accra say declining demand for their products is threatening their businesses, as more Senior High School (SHS) students opt for suitcases.
The traders blame changing consumer preferences, school prospectuses that list suitcases as acceptable items, and the sale of school supplies on campuses for the drop in sales.
Mr Victor Amankwa, who has sold trunks for about 10 years, said he had sold only 20 pieces this year, compared with more than 50 in previous years. A medium-sized trunk sells for about GH¢200.
He argued that metal trunks were more durable than suitcases and could be reused by younger siblings, helping parents reduce the cost of preparing children for school.
Another trader, Mr Peter Anderson, said the decline was affecting local production, particularly in Bukom, Accra, where the trade supports livelihoods.
He said wholesale buyers who previously purchased more than 50 trunks now ordered as few as five or 10, leaving producers with unsold stock.
Madam Serwaa Ampaafo, who has traded in trunks and school supplies for 34 years, also blamed the distribution of school items by some Members of Parliament, saying it reduced parents’ need to buy from market traders.
Meanwhile, suitcase sellers say business has also slowed. Mr Samuel Osae attributed the trend partly to the rising cost of school supplies, including plastic chop boxes, which can leave parents unable to afford suitcases.
He said a suitcase sells for about GH¢350, while a set of three costs between GH¢600 and GH¢700.
The traders are urging school authorities to reconsider their requirements and consider the impact on local businesses.
