JOIN US Vidya G is keen to buy a microwave oven before GST kicks in on July 1.
This past week, she went looking for a model she likes, but with no success. “Shops are clearing old stocks and saving new stocks. The options are limited,” she told DH.
She is not the only one complaining. “We want to replace our fridge, but the stores are not encouraging an exchange,” rued Krishnaswamy K, 54.
He was told to make full payment, as the store he visited isn’t taking bookings on Friday.
“We have to compare prices and after-sales. Also if delivery is done on Saturday, I pay higher tax under the GST regime. This is absurd,” he said.
A similar plight was expressed by Rajesh R, who has just moved to the city. He is busy setting up a house. “I have to buy many things but the choices are so limited. If I buy online, delivery takes longer, and comes with its own problems,” he said.
Store managers admit a shortage of products on the shelves. “The demand is increasing. But we have to run a business. If we clear all old stocks, getting new stocks under GST will take time. So we have reserved some stocks,” said Girish, sales manager at appliances store Pai.
Kishore of Adishwar said home delivery would take time as the demand is high.