When you travel to Morocco, you are seduced by the different artisanal products and the many souvenirs you can bring back from the souks, especially in the Souk of Marrakech. However, to do good business, you must know how to negotiate! So here are some tips we will share with you so you can learn how to deal best while avoiding getting fooled.
First of all, you should know that we only negotiate in some places; for example, food is one of the few products that are not negotiable. The price will be the same for everyone and even often displayed. The same applies to drinks, bus fares, and hotel rooms. Also, know that negotiation in souks is like a “local sport” part of the customs, so be cool. You will have to show strategy, humor, persuasion, and bluffing!?
Ready? Here we go!
Here are some basic concepts before negotiating in Souk of Marrakech:
- In Souk of Marrakech , being a foreigner makes prices rise considerably and automatically, so prices are rarely displayed in souks. They will vary according to the time of day, how the customer looks, and sometimes depending on the seller’s mood.
- Refrain from being led by a guide or somebody else to a specific store because they usually bring the customers back to the seller, who will then pay them a commission. Therefore, having someone accompany you to a store will increase the price so the seller covers “their” commission.
Tip 1 Souk of Marrakech: Ask about the price of the product
Before buying something, take a few walks in the souks and learn about the prices charged for the item you want to get an idea of the prices set. However, be careful with the finishing, quality of the products, and the materials used because that can quickly make a big difference in terms of prices.
Tip 2 in Souk of Marrakech: Hospitality and negotiation
While negotiating in Morocco, especially in Souk of Marrakech, is part of the custom, locals are always happy to deal with foreigners, mainly to discuss and socialize with them. Do not hesitate to ask the seller questions about his products, shop, and materials quality. They love to talk and sometimes even go so far as to offer you a glass of tea. Before starting the negotiations! Business is Business.
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Tip 3 in Souk of Marrakech: The bluff
One of the first tips to share is to refrain from showing interest in the product. It is complicated for some people; you will have to learn to hide your emotions at the risk of seeing the product’s price increase. Finally, only start negotiations if you are interested in the product.
Tip 4 in Souk of Marrakech: The starting price
The starting price can often interfere with good negotiation. For example, a product usually sold at 20 $ can be priced at 60 $; no matter how much you negotiate and get a discount of 30 $, you will still lose because you will pay it at 30 $. You will then always be above the market price. The best thing is to let the merchant give you the first or even the second price. Once the price is announced, change the subject, talk about other things, and then come back to negotiate and ask again the lowest price he can make, then ask what his last price would be.
The starting price can often interfere with good negotiation. For example, a product usually sold at 20 $ can be priced at 60 $; no matter how much you negotiate and get a discount of 30 $, you will still lose because you will pay it at 30 $. You will then always be above the market price. The best thing is to let the merchant give you the first or even the second price. Once the price is announced, change the subject, talk about other things, and then come back to negotiate and ask again the lowest price he can make, then ask what his last price would be.
Be attentive to the price announced from the start, but if you have followed our advice n°2, should you leave on a reasonable basis?
Tip 5 in Souk of Marrakech: Master the information
You are the one who must lead the negotiations quietly and without pressure. First, show that you know the product, come up with some terms from other sellers (tip #2!), and feel free to ask technical questions to show him that you are not an amateur. After that, it is up to you to give the information except the one concerning the starting price.
Tip 6 in Souk of Marrakech: Put your emotions aside
Keep this rule in mind: The seller will never sell his product at a loss! He can tell you that his children will starve to death if he sells it to you for that price, that he would earn absolutely nothing, and that you are too complex in business. In short, as well as advice n°3, everything is a matter of bluffing, but you are not the only one to bluff; the game is played by two!?
Tip 7 in Souk of Marrakech: Try to leave without buying
The negotiation has progressed well, but is it blocking? Okay, don’t worry, try to leave politely without buying anything. Chances are, the seller will come after you or pick you up and drop the negotiation at your price. What if it doesn’t? In this case, you have reached the exact price, so you can return in the afternoon or the next day and get it at the agreed price.
One last tip: If you make several purchases or can buy your products with others, you can ideally negotiate a group price. What if you are alone? Don’t worry, ask him for a reasonable price and commit yourself to talking about him to the other tourists and taking them to his shop if he gives you a reasonable price.?
Finally, know that you will have a better chance of doing good negotiations early in the morning. A day that starts very early with a good sale is a good sign for Muslim traders to be more benevolent and generous.
Remember, a good negotiation is not a balance of power; consider that your negotiation is successful if you think the price you pay is fair. So keep smiling and consider this a way to interact with someone eager to learn more about you, your country, and your culture. ?
So welcome to Souk of Marrakech or Morocco….
FAQ: Perfect Negotiation in the Souk of Marrakech
What are the best easy tips for perfect negotiation in the Souk?
The best easy tips for ideal negotiation in the Souk are provided in this guide.
Is negotiation an essential skill when shopping in a Souk?
Yes, negotiation is considered an important skill when shopping in a Souk.
How can the art of negotiation be mastered in a Souk?
The art of negotiation in a Souk can be learned by following the tips presented in this guide.
What is the importance of patience in Souk negotiations?
Tolerance is an essential aspect of Souk negotiations for achieving successful outcomes.
Are language barriers a concern when negotiating in the Souk?
Language barriers can be encountered during Souk negotiations, and strategies for overcoming them are discussed in this guide.
What role does body language play in Souk negotiations?
The significance of body language in Souk negotiations is explained, and its impact on successful negotiation is highlighted.
Is it common to haggle over prices in Souks?
Yes, it is common practice to haggle over prices in Souks, and this guide provides insights on effective negotiation techniques.
Are there specific tips for negotiating with Souk vendors?
Particular recommendations for negotiating with Souk vendors are detailed in this guide to enhance your negotiation skills.
How can one ensure a fair deal when negotiating in the Souk?
Providing a fair value when negotiating in the Souk is discussed, focusing on ethical negotiation practices.
What can be done to build rapport with Souk sellers during negotiation?
Techniques for making connections with Souk sellers during negotiation are provided in this guide, promoting successful negotiations.
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