Although
a brisk wind played havoc with the “sale” signs taped to merchandise-laden tables
along Broadway last week, most clerks and store managers said Bayonne’s annual
sidewalk sale managed to bring out the crowds.
The
sale is a summer ritual, a multi-day event during which many of the merchants
put out clearance and other items at reduced rates, making for a
bargain-hunter’s paradise.
Many of the long-time merchants said that the brisk sales, if not up to the sales they once enjoyed in decades past, exceeded expectations – especially with the threat of inclement weather.
The possibility of thunderstorms may have dampened some of the enthusiasm, but through most of the daylight hours, sunlight glistened brightly off the array of multi-colored goods.
Some merchants blamed the weather for the less-than-usual number of stores participating this year. Still, Tuesday through Saturday, customers were able to collect anything from summer wear to ceramic knick-knacks, to hardware goods to suntan lotion.
Euris Castillo, an employee at Adele’s, which along with Amad’s sells linens, said business was pretty good, with people stopping off regularly to look at items offered at the sidewalk display.
A salesperson at a gift shop a few blocks north, however, said sales were not so brisk, blaming the fear of bad weather.
Marty’s Shoe Store brought workers from its Belleville Store to handle the expected increase in sales, and workers there said people stopped frequently to examine the racks.
DeLores of Mandees also reported the uneven flow of customers, but believed sales would increase as the day wore on.
At one point, however, almost a dozen people gathered outside of Klothes Kloset.
Richard Madsen, the owner of Candle Cottage next door, described business as “pretty good.” The Candle Cottage has been involved in the sidewalk sale since it opened eight years ago.
“Years ago, more merchants took part,” Madsen said. “But people are still coming. This brings out people in search of bargains.”
Offering a variety
His store, like many, offers a variety of goods, many of which have been discontinued, but still have value.
Places like the Mobile Phone Center offer an array of cellular phone covers, while Herbert’s Army and Navy Store farther down the street has t-shirts, and McCabe’s offers sandals.
Jerry’s Surgical Supply had a host of items. Joann, the clerk, said the variety draws people to look at the non-sale merchandise inside the store.
“Friday and Saturday draw more people,” she said. “That’s when people are off from work.”
Rich, a salesperson at Sound City, where the array of electronic items was truly impressive, said sales were good.
“We’re moving the stock,” he said.
Jennie Rivera, manager at Sasson’s Youth World, said the racks outside help get people into the store. Most of what she offers is seasonal clothing, with racks set out for people to browse through.
Michelle at Joyce Leslie, fighting with the wind in an attempt to tape up a sales sign, said sales have been pretty steady.
“It’s the weather,” she said. “If it stays nice, we’ll see people out[side].” q