Sales of emergency supplies, including torches and batteries, have surged dramatically in the UK following the government's "Be Ready" campaign, which warns of increased risks of blackouts from cyberattacks, extreme weather, and other major incidents. Retailers reported a 1,200% increase in torch sales and a 408% rise in battery demand. Electronic manufacturers have seen a 20-fold increase in orders for emergency lighting.
The campaign, launched by Defence Secretary Wes Streeting on October 22, encourages Britons to prepare for potential disruptions. In the ten days following the announcement, sales of hand sanitiser rose by 83% and bottled water by 67%. Sales of tinned meat increased by 43%, equating to an additional 400,000 shoppers purchasing the item daily. This uptick in demand for stockpiled goods, including non-perishable food and bottled water, aligns with the government's advice to have a three-day supply of essentials.
Manufacturers like Ledlenser have experienced significant boosts. In October, the German company saw a nearly 200% surge in sales of its battery-powered lighting products compared to the previous month. Demand for its ML6 Rechargeable lantern specifically increased by approximately 330% year-on-year, with overall demand for LED lanterns rising by 1,200%. Hand torches and rechargeable head torches also saw demand spikes exceeding 300%, often accompanied by orders for multiple backup batteries. "I think everybody definitely wants to be quite prepared," said Jennifer Tully, Head of E-commerce at Ledlenser, noting a shift in consumer priority towards emergency preparedness, especially with winter approaching.
The "Be Ready" campaign comes amid heightened global tensions, with warnings from military chiefs about potential conflicts involving Russia and other nations. Governments in Europe, Asia, and North America have also issued similar advisories for citizens to stockpile essentials. Despite the surge in demand for certain items, the British Retail Consortium stated that food availability remains strong and retailers are well-stocked.
Emergency Supply Recommendations
The UK government's "National Resilience checklist" advises households to prepare an emergency kit. While specific needs vary, general recommendations include:
- Three days' worth of non-perishable food and bottled water.
- Blankets, an FM radio, and power banks.
- Ready-to-eat canned or bottled food items such as meat, fish, fruit, juice, vegetables, and soup.
- Dried and long-life food products, including ready-to-eat meals, cereal, flour, milk powder, soup mixes, rice, pasta, and long-life cheeses.
- Snack items like dried fruits, nuts, biscuits, and crackers.
- Drinks including bottled water (recommended 3 liters per person per day), water sterilising tablets, and concentrated juices.
- Baby supplies, pet food, toiletries, cleaning products, and first-aid kits.
