Refrigerator sales dip ahead of Eid amid inflation, rain

Sales of refrigerators have dropped by 5–7% ahead of Eid-ul-Adha this year, as persistent rainfall and rising inflation continue to squeeze consumer spending, manufacturers said.

Nurul Afsar, deputy managing director of Electro Mart, told The Business Standard that although Eid-ul-Adha typically accounts for 35% to 40% of Bangladesh's annual refrigerator sales, which is roughly 2.5 million units, this year's turnout has been lower than expected.

"Despite cost hikes, companies are trying to retain Eid sales through promotional offers, but it is low," he said, noting that urban sales in particular have slowed significantly.

Walton, which commands more than two-thirds of the domestic refrigerator market, also reported a 5–6% drop in sales during what is traditionally the peak refrigerator shopping season.

"Customers are still walking in to ask about models and prices. Many are looking to buy their first refrigerator or upgrade from an older one," said Md Shahidul Islam Reza, product manager of Walton's refrigerator unit.

"However, sales have declined due to lower disposable income, a trend we've been observing for the third consecutive year," he added.

According to company officials, districts affected by heavy rain and flooding are witnessing the sharpest decline in refrigerator sales.