Biz Aid Saipan Enterprises, Inc. administrative assistant Divine Sotto told the Variety that the vendors are enjoying brisk sales as more and more people come to the flea market.
“The economic recession has not stopped customers from flocking to the stalls to buy brand new items as well as used goods,” Sotto said.
She said Biz Aid is planning to open a night flea market targeted for tourists next month.
“We have just renewed our permit to operate the flea market up to April 2011, and we want to maximize the full hours or operation indicated in the permit,” Sotto said.
The flea market is permitted to open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. but most of the vendors come and finish early.
As early as 7 a.m., customers are already waiting for the stalls to display their goods such as electronic items, new and used clothing, shoes, kitchen and household ware, books, toys and everything else.
“We are planning to open the night flea market from 5 to 9 p.m. on Saturdays and we will focus on souvenir items for the tourists,” Sotto said.
The international flea market has over 40 regular vendors who have signed contracts for two weeks to one month.
Sotto said many vendors are interested to apply for slots but space is limited in the area.
She said other vendors may have to be on a waiting list.
“Our vendors are from all races such as Japanese, Filipino, Chinese, Koreans and even locals, and most of them have so much stuff at home that they want to dispose while some are leaving the island,” Sotto said.
Biz Aid Saipan Inc. opened the international flea market in Oct. 2008.
