Dubai: Retailers in the UAE selling refrigerators and air-conditioners expect a jump in sales in the hot summer months.
The anticipated surge in sales will make up for the slower demand in the cooler months, retailers say.
Sales are expected to increase by 25-30 per cent this summer compared to the same period last year, said Saarim Bakali, channel development manager at Super General Company, which is part of the Albatha Retail and Home Products Group.
Demand for refrigerators and air-conditioners has already picked up since late February, he said, adding that it was lower at the start of the year because of less tourism, besides the cooler weather.
“This is the main season for sales of ACs and refrigerators,” he said.
Bakali was speaking at Gitex Shopper Spring 2016, a consumer electronics exhibition that will run until Saturday at the Dubai World Trade Centre.
“Yes, consumers mainly come here for laptops and LED [televisions], but there is a segment of consumers who are willing to purchase home appliances during this time,” he said.
Consumer electronics retailer Jacky’s also anticipates a jump in sales of refrigerators and air conditioners this summer, said its assistant vice president, Mahesh Chotrani. “A jump in sales is going to be there. We are planning promotions on kitchen appliances in May- June,” he said, adding that he expects 10-12 per cent growth in sales of home appliances this year over 2015. Refrigerators are among the biggest selling products in the home appliances category, he said.
