Tailors in Lahore hike stitching rates before Eid

Tailors in Lahore have raised stitching rates by up to 30% ahead of Eid, citing increased costs of materials and inflation. Customers are concerned about affordability, while tailors warn prices may rise further as Eid nears.

LAHORE: Tailors across the city have increased their stitching rates well before the arrival of Eid, with many attributing the hike to rising inflation and higher operational costs.

According to a report, customers visiting tailoring shops in Lahore have been met with new price lists, with some tailors raising their charges by 20 to 30 percent compared to last year. The increase comes weeks ahead of Eid, a period when demand for new clothes traditionally surges.

Shopkeepers and tailors stated that the decision to raise prices was driven by the rising costs of raw materials, such as thread, buttons, and lining, as well as higher electricity bills and shop rents. One tailor explained, “We are compelled to increase our rates as the prices of everything, including fabric and accessories, have gone up. It is becoming difficult to manage expenses at previous rates.”

Customers, however, have expressed frustration over the early and steep price hike. Many complained that the new rates are unaffordable for middle- and lower-income families, who already face financial pressures due to inflation. A customer at a local shop remarked, “Every year, tailors increase their rates before Eid, but this time the hike is much higher and has come much earlier.”

Some tailors have also introduced additional charges for urgent orders, with rates for quick delivery reportedly even higher. The report noted that the price for stitching a simple shalwar kameez now ranges from Rs1,200 to Rs1,800, depending on the area and the tailor’s reputation, compared to last year’s average of Rs900 to Rs1,200.

Tailors said they are also facing a shortage of skilled workers, which has further impacted their ability to meet the seasonal demand. They warned that rates could increase further as Eid approaches if inflationary pressures persist.

The report highlighted that the trend is not limited to Lahore, with similar price hikes observed in other cities as well. Customers are being advised to place their orders early to avoid last-minute rush and potentially higher charges.