Amidst the ongoing cost of living crisis in New Zealand, some might think that IPOP Eyewear has an advantage, offering a more affordable alternative to pricey designer sunglasses. While it's true that we're positioned to provide budget-friendly eyewear, the reality is that we're feeling the effects of this crisis too. Despite maintaining our prices for the past three years, we've noticed a surge in browsing activity but a decline in actual sales.


Interestingly, what we've observed is that customers are opting for larger purchases to take advantage of our free shipping offer on orders over $100. It seems folks are looking to maximize their spending to offset rising shipping costs. Speaking of which, inflation and price hikes are rampant across the industry, exacerbated by the fact that NZ Post doubled their shipping rates in 2023. To mitigate the impact on our customers, we've opted to only charge for shipping at cost, ensuring we're not profiting from these increased rates like some other companies might.


Now, let's dive into why many people in New Zealand are finding themselves with less disposable income for non-essential purchases, such as sunglasses.


1. Inflation on the Rise


Prices for just about everything – groceries, rent, utilities – are going up, making it harder for folks to stretch their dollars. It's like your paycheck isn't stretching as far as it used to.


2. Housing Market Madness


Buying or renting a place to live has become a real headache. With demand skyrocketing and supply struggling to keep up, housing prices have shot through the roof. It's leaving a lot of Kiwis feeling like they're stuck in a never-ending game of house hunting.


3. Wage Woes


Even though the cost of living keeps climbing, wages aren't always keeping pace. That means your pay check might not be growing fast enough to cover all your bills and still have a bit left over for the fun stuff.


4. Transport Troubles


Getting around isn't cheap either. Whether you're fuelling up your car or hopping on public transport, the cost of getting from A to B is eating into people's budgets.


5. Everything Else


It's not just the big-ticket items that are pinching wallets. Even the little things, like a cup of coffee or a movie ticket, seem to cost more these days. It's like every time you turn around, there's another price hike waiting to catch you off guard.


So yeah, it's tough out there. But knowing what's behind the cost of living crisis can help us all make smarter choices with our money and hopefully weather the storm a little easier.




 When prices are climbing faster than a mountain goat, it's time to get creative with your money-saving strategies. Here are a few tips to help you navigate through price hikes and stretch your dollars a bit further:


1. Budget Like a Boss


Take a good, hard look at your spending habits and see where you can trim the fat. Maybe it's cutting back on those daily lattes or packing your lunch instead of eating out. Every little bit adds up!


2. Shop Smart


Keep an eye out for deals, discounts, and sales wherever you can find them. Whether it's clipping coupons, shopping during off-peak times, or taking advantage of loyalty programs, there are plenty of ways to score a bargain.


3. DIY Whenever Possible


Channel your inner handyman (or woman) and tackle those DIY projects around the house. Whether it's fixing that leaky faucet or sewing up that torn shirt, doing it yourself can save you a bundle in repair costs.


4. Consider Second-hand


One person's trash is another person's treasure, right? Check out thrift stores, garage sales, and online marketplaces for gently used items at a fraction of the cost of new ones.


5. Embrace Minimalism


Do you really need that shiny new gadget or trendy piece of clothing? Probably not. Simplifying your life and cutting back on unnecessary purchases can help you save money and reduce clutter at the same time.


6. Invest in Quality, Affordable Essentials


When it comes to items like sunglasses, you don't have to break the bank to protect your eyes and look stylish. Opt for low-cost options like the ones available at iPOP Eyewear. With price starting at $19 you can snag a pair of trendy shades without blowing your budget.


Remember, every dollar you save is a dollar you can put towards building a more secure financial future. So get creative, stay savvy, and watch your savings grow!