Bargain hunters rev your engines. This is the can’t-miss shopping rendezvous of the year in Monaco. Organized by the Union of Merchants and Craftsmen of Monaco (UCAM), the 22nd edition of the Monegasque merchant clearance sale has begun. It will run throughout this week until Sunday at 7:30 PM.
Under their Fontvieille tents, forty shops are liquidating their designer accessories, brand name prêt-à-porter, children’s collections, and decorative home objects, that are best described as both luxurious and design. There is something for everyone and for every budget. Clothing, jewelry, leather goods, paintings, shoes, toys… You name it, it can be found at the braderie.
As with all clearance sales, the best deals go to the early risers and those willing to look the longest. It must be said that this particular meeting of bargain hunters gives access to high-end merchandise at unbeatable prices. Sporting goods at five or ten euros, brand-name sneakers at 35 euros per pair, cashmere sweaters for 25 euros. All for the taking in Monaco!
Of course, not all sizes remain available for all pieces. Items go quickly and some are final stock. Locals are in competition with tourists, which means you had better be quick on your feet.
Like every year, two stands are reserved for associations seeking funding in the form of donations. For example, SOS Future Mothers, which is a support network for pregnant women who have financial (and general) difficulties in coping with the arrival of their newborn babies. The other organization is the Association of Former Students and Nursing Students of Monaco. These associations will be selling various objects in order to finance their missions.
*Originally reported on the French edition of the Monaco Tribune.