Retailers dealing in Black Stars jerseys are considering significant price reductions after Ghana's early elimination from the 2026 FIFA World Cup led to a sharp decline in customer demand.

Many traders had expanded their stock in anticipation of a prolonged tournament run by the national team, following a surge in sales during the group stage. However, the Black Stars' exit in the Round of 32 has left several businesses struggling with unsold merchandise.

Frederick Ashley, a football merchandise dealer, said demand peaked ahead of Ghana's clash with Panama, prompting many retailers to purchase additional stock to meet growing customer interest.

According to him, business has since slowed considerably, forcing traders to rethink their pricing strategy to minimise losses.

He revealed that jerseys previously sold for around GH¢250, with negotiated prices averaging GH¢200, could now be reduced to between GH¢130 and GH¢150 to help clear existing stock.

Ashley acknowledged that the discounts would reduce profit margins but said recovering part of the investment was preferable to holding onto unsold inventory.

Despite the current downturn, he remains hopeful that future national events, including Ghana's Independence Day celebrations, could revive demand for the jerseys.

He disclosed that he currently has more than 5,000 Black Stars jerseys in stock and believes there will still be opportunities to sell them in the coming months.

Other traders are also calling on wholesalers to reduce their prices, arguing that lower acquisition costs would enable retailers to pass on savings to customers.

Yaw Broni said wholesale prices had risen during the World Cup, making it difficult to keep retail prices affordable. He expects costs to ease now that Ghana's campaign has ended, with some jerseys likely to sell for between GH¢80 and GH¢100.

James Antwi shared a similar view, explaining that any reduction in retail prices would largely depend on whether suppliers lower their wholesale rates.

Not all retailers, however, are prepared to slash prices. Bernard Asamoah said he intends to maintain current selling prices, insisting that any significant discount would force him to sell below cost.

He noted that he still has about 500 Black Stars jerseys in stock, each selling for GH¢150, and believes absorbing further losses would be financially unsustainable.