While the country may be sweltering through some of the hottest days ever recorded, some businesses are actually enjoying some success as the mercury rises.
Stores in shopping centres, cinemas and ice cream shops are receiving a boom in sales due to the hot weather, although entrepreneurs are warning they don’t want the heat to climb too high.
Dominic Lopresti, co-chief executive of Gelatissimo, says his business has recorded some of its best sales ever due to the heat, but also says ultra-hot days above 30 or 35 degrees make things difficult.
“When you get a day like yesterday, or today in New South Wales, it’s stifling to the point where people just don’t want to leave their homes,” he told SmartCompany.
Russell Zimmerman of the Australian Retailers Association agrees – saying some heat is good, but too much can really put a dent in sales.
However, Zimmerman did provide some good news. He’s hearing reports that many businesses are doing well from the heat.
Zimmerman also says as the heat wave has been anticipated for some time, retailers were ready for the onslaught.
As Dominic Lopresti testifies, ice cream and gelato stores are doing very well. Lopresti’s own business, which was a runner-up for a SmartCompany-sponsored innovation award last year, has broken several sales records.
Cinema chains across the country have recorded higher bookings as a result of the heat – it’s a favourite choice among older consumers who choose to stay out of the warmth.
A spokesperson for Hoyts told The Manly Daily cinemas in Victoria have experienced strong trade, with similar sales expected for New South Wales as well.
Russell Zimmerman reports some locations have recorded the highest pre-booking sales ever.
Gerry Harvey commented last year that if it was a hot summer, he’d be a happy entrepreneur – his wishes have come true. Zimmerman reports stores selling any types of fans, including more expensive options, are recording solid sales.
Harvey Norman, Kmart and Target are no doubt enjoying the extra attention as consumers look for ways to get cool.
Although it’s true many people may choose to stay indoors on exceptionally hot days, shopping centre-based stores are experiencing higher levels of foot traffic.
“Certainly the activity in shopping centres will have increased,” says Zimmerman.
Lopresti agrees, saying he’s noted his company’s stores located in shopping centres have “performed very well”.