With icy temperatures forecast across the nation over the next couple of days, retailers Argos and Homebase anticipate sales of winter-related products to spike this week.

Homebase seasonal buyer David Gillespie said: “With snow expected in most areas of the UK over the next few days, customers are stocking up and getting prepared for frosty conditions to come.
“This week, we have seen demand for snow shovels increase by almost 180% in comparison to this time last year; sales of de-icer have also increased by more than 75%. With severe weather warnings in place across some parts of the country, it’s great to see people thinking ahead and being prepared.”
Argos has also this week seen sales of portable heaters increase by 120% and heated blankets increase by 100% year-on-year, as people look to keep warm indoors.
Teresa Young, seasonal buyer for Argos, said: “We’ve seen a huge demand over the last few weeks as customers seek an extra source of heating in their homes. Lots of customers have been snapping up fan heaters and oil filled radiators, with sales of both up nearly threefold. We are used to seeing icy temperatures at this time of year. However, this winter is anticipated to be the coldest in almost a century and we don’t blame people for wanting to stay warm at home.”