Explore how extreme heat influences consumer behavior and sales trends across industries. Learn how businesses adapt to weather-driven changes with AccuWeather.

By Adrianne Burke, Content Marketing Manager | AccuWeather For Business

Published Nov 25, 2024 12:37 PM EDT | Updated Nov 26, 2024 11:47 AM EDT

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The recent soaring temperatures are not only impacting outdoor industries but sales as well. Here’s a closer look at how customer behavior is affected by extreme heat.

Extreme heat has far-reaching implications, affecting not only the climate but also consumer behavior and sales trends. The recent scorching temperatures have a broader impact on consumer preferences and purchasing patterns. From frozen treats to fashion and home and garden, here’s a closer look at how customer behavior is impacted by extreme heat.

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Cooling culinary cravings

The ice cream industry experiences a noticeable shift in consumer behavior during heat waves. However, the impact of extreme heat extends beyond frozen desserts. Restaurants, cafes, and beverage companies observe a surge in demand for refreshing and hydrating options. Iced beverages, smoothies, and cold salads become popular for customers looking to beat the sweltering heat. On the flip side, hot and heavy meals may experience a decline in demand during heat waves.

Fashion frenzy: Dressing for the heat

Retail stores selling clothes also experience significant shifts in sales during extreme heat. As temperatures rise, consumers gravitate towards lightweight and breathable clothing, such as shorts, sundresses, and tank tops. Sales of summer apparel soar and retailers stock up on seasonal collections to cater to this demand.

Travel and tourism

Extreme heat can have a profound impact on travel and tourism patterns. Destinations with warmer climates experience a surge in visitors seeking cooler weather, while traditional hotspots may see a decline in tourist numbers during excessively hot periods. Hotels and resorts in cooler regions witness increased bookings, while those in heat-prone areas may need to offer discounts and promotions to attract visitors.

Home and garden

The scorching sun influences sales in the home and garden industry. Air conditioners, fans, and cooling appliances are in high demand during heat waves as consumers look to maintain a comfortable indoor environment. Gardening and outdoor furniture sales may dip as people limit their time outdoors due to the extreme heat. However, sales of items like patio umbrellas, misting fans, and outdoor shade solutions may increase as consumers try to create cool, shaded areas.

Energy and utilities

High temperatures strain energy resources as people rely heavily on air conditioning and cooling systems. Utility companies often witness a spike in electricity consumption during heat waves, leading to increased energy sales. On the flip side, renewable energy solutions like solar panels may experience a boost in sales as people seek sustainable alternatives to power their homes.

Be better prepared for the impacts of extreme heat with AccuWeather For Business

Extreme heat can lead to intense heat waves that can impact energy demand, consumer buying behavior, labor scheduling and other essential tasks you manage every day. AccuWeather For Business uses enhanced techniques to produce a single historical, current and predicted weather data database to help your business achieve long-term strategic success.

Is your business prepared for the dangers of extreme heat? AccuWeather For Business Historical Data can help your business win against Mother Nature. Contact us today!

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Extreme weather: A leading risk for modern businesses