In the Face of Marketplace Onslaught, Kramat's Official-Uniform Traders Rely on Corporate Orders
JAKARTA, Kompas.com - The Kramat area in Senen, Central Jakarta, remains one of the hubs for security guard gear, TNI-Polri insignia, and tailoring and embroidery services for uniforms that have persisted amid changes in consumer spending patterns.
However, behind the row of shops that still look busy, traders acknowledge that sales are no longer as brisk as before the Covid-19 pandemic.
Shifts in consumer behaviour, with an increasing habit of comparing prices on marketplaces, have caused off-the-shelf purchases at physical shops to gradually decline.
Although there are still transactions every day, the number of visitors is no longer as high as in recent years.
“These days there are buyers every day, but one could say it's rather quiet,” said Dede when speaking to Kompas.com in the Kramat area, on Tuesday (19/5/2026).
According to Dede, the changes began to be felt since the Covid-19 pandemic. Before the pandemic, the area was much livelier with buyers who came directly to seek security gear, TNI-Polri insignia, and work uniforms.
“It was busier before Covid,” he said.
“Sales in the area are also heavily influenced by seasonal demand. When there are openings for TNI education or recruitment of security personnel, demand for equipment usually rises.”
“For example, during the TNI education season, items related to the TNI are in high demand,” said Dede.
“However, at present, he says there has been no particular surge in demand. Sales tend to run normally without any special momentum.”
“Dede said the shop where he works sells a range of gear, from security guard uniforms, TNI-Polri insignia, tactical gear, to service shoes.”
“Prices vary depending on material and quality. For security guard uniforms made of drill with embroidery, for example, a set costs around Rp 250,000.”
“Meanwhile, TNI camouflage uniforms can range from Rp 400,000 to Rp 600,000, depending on material specifications.”
“Nevertheless, Dede acknowledges that changes in consumer spending patterns are starting to affect footfall in physical shops.”
“It’s noticeable. But visitors can see and feel the goods directly when they come to the shop,” he said.
“To ensure the quality of the material and size of the products, especially for uniforms and footwear.”
“He added that bulk purchases have now become a key pillar of the business in the area. Orders usually come from foundations or security outsourcing firms.”
“For companies, orders can usually run into the dozens,” he said.
“In addition to selling ready-made goods, many shops in Kramat also receive custom sewing orders, from cleaning-service uniforms to hats with special designs.”
“However, unit production costs are far higher than those for large-batch orders.”
“Producing single items is possible, but prices can be two to three times higher,” said Dede.
“He said that although daily turnover during slow periods is only between Rp 1.5 million and Rp 2 million, the business continues due to loyal customers and regular orders.”