Sales of essential items like bottled water and canned food experienced significant increases after the launch of the government's 'Be Ready' campaign on October 22. Research shows that hand sanitiser sales rose by 83%, bottled water by 67%, and tinned goods by 37% within ten days of the campaign's start.
The campaign aimed to encourage households to prepare for potential emergencies, promoting the idea of keeping three days' worth of supplies at home. Notably, the increase in sales was attributed to households adding recommended items to their shopping lists rather than panic buying.
Monitor how retailers adapt to sustained demand for essentials post-campaign. Watch for potential shifts in supply chains and pricing strategies as households adjust their purchasing habits. Future campaigns may focus on long-term preparedness rather than immediate stockpiling.