Kochi: The early arrival of rain has provided relief from the summer heat and given a significant boost to the umbrella market. Typically reliant on the regular rainy season, sellers have seen a surge in demand due to the early rains. Sales, which generally begin in the last week of May, started in the first week of March this year. Initially, traders struggled to make the necessary arrangements in their shops, but this did not significantly affect sales.

Traders are aiming for Rs 500 crore in sales this season. With schools reopening during the rainy season, students are a major target market.

"Most consumers are looking for ultraviolet (UV) resistant umbrellas to protect themselves from the scorching heat. We expect sales to increase this season compared to the previous year," said Joseph Thayyil, Director of Johns Umbrella.

Colour is a crucial factor in children's umbrellas, with most featuring attractive colours and cartoon characters to appeal to kids. These umbrellas are priced between Rs 300 and Rs 500.

Commenting on changes in umbrella design and colour, Davis Thayyil, Managing Director of Popy Umbrella, said, "The umbrella business is always about innovation. The key is to launch umbrellas that cater to the convenience and interests of customers."

Traders note that while threefold umbrellas are in high demand, fivefold umbrellas are also popular due to their compact and portable features. Additionally, carbon lite and long umbrellas are selling well. Threefold umbrellas are priced between Rs 440 and Rs 600, and fivefold umbrellas start at Rs 600. Capsule bottles for storing wet umbrellas are currently trending.

Garden umbrellas, typically used by street vendors, are also popular, with prices starting from Rs 1,800. Umbrellas made with imported fabrics and other materials are expected to see a price increase.

In addition to leading manufacturers, umbrellas produced by small-scale cottage industries are recording significant sales, with prices starting from Rs 200. The domestic market also features umbrellas made in China, starting from Rs 150. Many umbrella manufacturers have now begun selling online.

In response to the high demand, umbrella-making training is being provided to promote women's empowerment and self-employment, under the supervision of various government departments.