What to expect as we near Christmas

What to expect as we near Christmas

December 15, 2020 0 comment

December is a holiday month, and for many people all over the world, it’s a period for parties and entertainment. Equally, it is the month when people reflect and make resolutions for the coming year. But 2020 has been an unusual year. Many businesses and plans have come to a total halt for obvious reasons. Economies are crumbling. Jobs have been lost, and the fear of infection and deaths from COVID-19 is increasing every day.

As we wind down 2020 and particularly approach 25th, here are a few things to bear in mind.

Covid-19 infections are rising, and you need to take extra care.

The World Health Organisation on 14 December estimated 1,624,086 cases and 24,464 COVID-19 related deaths to have occurred in Africa.

Earlier in the month, Africa Centre for Disease Control and Prevention said cases of Covid-19 were on the rise, averaging a 7.5 per cent increase each week over the past months. Equally, deaths from the disease have increased by 9 per cent.

As millions of people travel from one region or country to another, the chances of spreading or contracting the virus are very high. Because many of our elderly relatives live in villages and age has been cited as a significant vulnerability factor, you need to take extra caution around the aged.

Although many people have recovered from the disease, there are so many who have equally died from it. The odds of survival against death are unpredictable. As cases continue to fill up hospitals, health workers are stressed and stretched beyond acceptable limits. Prevention is, therefore, being advised so you can better enjoy the festive season.

Spending is likely to be less.

We are in unusual times for both SMEs, employees, employers, and consumers. As you plan to stock your business ahead of the festive season, bear in mind that many people’s incomes have drastically reduced. Their spending power has diminished. Organisations that usually give out vouchers and gift hampers may not be able to do so this year.

For instance, a study by Finders (2020), indicates that 56 per cent of South Africans aged 18 are planning to spend less money during Christmas compared to last year. This could be a mirror of the widespread reality. If you are stocking goods and products that are perishable, then do so on a small scale considering the economic challenges that have engulfed most people.

Travel is likely to be very expensive.

It is not news that towards Christmas, transport fares usually go up. What is new, however, is that it may go up to unprecedented levels in many countries across the continent.

As a measure to create a semblance of social distancing, most governments decreed that public service vehicles carry half capacity as part of conditions for easing lockdowns.

The International Growth Center, says since this countermeasure to minimise the spread of COVID-19 was instituted, the majority of vehicles across cities are carrying less than 60 per cent of standard capacity.

Recommended article: Life lessons to teach your children this holiday season.

This has already made transport fares high. And because the season will see many travellers with only a few owning fewer vehicles, the cost will automatically go up. Prepare adequately for your trips.

Quiet festivities

Many SMEs and individuals in the entertainment and hospitality sector eke out a living through organising musical concerts, religious programmes, or by operating bars and other fun events. Christmas usually offers a bumper season for such businesses. Unfortunately, to date, many cities and towns continue to impose bans on gatherings and operations of amusement centres. It implies that this Christmas is expected to be a quiet one, and entertainment-oriented businesses will continue to reel in losses as has been the case for much of the year.

Keeping the points above in mind could help you make responsible decisions for yourself and your loved ones. Enjoy your Christmas and Happy New Year.