Back-to-school shopping boosts sales in Quito's Historic Center

As the 2026-2027 school year begins in Ecuador's Sierra-Amazonía region, Quito's Historic Center is experiencing a surge in commercial activity driven by parents purchasing school supplies and uniforms. Merchants and parents alike are actively engaged in early shopping, comparing prices, and adjusting budgets before students return to classrooms.

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The prices depend on the brands that families select or those requested by educational institutions.

The progressive start of classes in public institutions is scheduled for Tuesday, September 1, while private, fiscomisional, and municipal schools set their own dates. This staggered schedule influences the pace of shopping. Magdalena Piedra, owner of Librería y Papelería Popular, noted that business picked up in early August, with notebooks, pencils, and erasers being the most sought-after items.

Piedra mentioned that prices at her store remain similar to previous years. She has not yet observed excessively demanding order lists. However, she pointed out a difference between educational systems: families from private schools tend to buy supplies earlier as they receive lists in advance, whereas public schools often distribute requirements during the first days of class. Consequently, Piedra anticipates a busier period starting September 1.

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The prices depend on the brands that families select or those requested by educational institutions.

José Javier Narváez García, a parent of two daughters in high school, reported an increase in textbook prices. He explained that each institution requires different books and sometimes specific materials, such as scientific calculators with particular codes. Narváez estimates spending around $350 per daughter solely on textbooks and notebooks, not including other expenses like shoes, uniforms, and formal wear. His total education-related budget for his two daughters, including enrollment, is close to $1,700, a sum his tenth salary barely covers a quarter of for one child.

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The prices depend on the brands that families select or those requested by educational institutions.

Uniform purchases have also seen an early start. Gabriela Avilés, a uniform merchant, observed a greater number of shoppers, particularly on weekends, over the past three weeks. This early demand indicates parents are preparing well in advance for the upcoming academic year.

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The prices depend on the brands that families select or those requested by educational institutions.