Couches aren't a big seller, but businesses like Guy's Furniture & Appliances are still getting customers looking for fridges and freezers. (Josh Ryan/battlefordsNOW)

By Josh Ryan

Freezers A Hot Item

Demand for storage providing business for appliance stores

May 11, 2020 | 2:51 PM

After toilet paper and internet packages have dominated the shopping sprees of the COVID-19 pandemic, another that’s drawn heavy demand is household appliances.

An initial drop off forced a reduction for staff, but Battleford Furniture soon found heavy demand for appliances. Owner Chris Odishaw said it’s been a rollercoaster ride, but they’re happy to provide a need for the community.

“Went from laying off half the staff, to finding we can stay open, or may even be required to stay open,” he said. “As people cocoon, they need essential things for their home. So, we’ve been there to fill those [needs].”

In order to stock up on food, units such as freezers and fridges are continuing to draw customers, to the point that supply has become a challenge. Larry Houle of Guy’s Furniture & Appliances said they’ve sold far more feezers than in the past.

“Restocking has been a bit of an issue because of the supply chain,” he said.

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“Now every single freezer I can get my hands on is gone in days,” Odishaw said.

Sales aren’t limited just to appliances. Families looking to find furniture for decks or spending time on the lawn have also kept sales going.

“We’ve already sold more outdoor furniture than we did last year combined,” Odishaw said.

However, the increase in those sales doesn’t mean the businesses aren’t hit by the economic shutdown. More expensive furniture isn’t selling and the flow of the average customer is still minimal. Houle said he doesn’t expect those purchases to pick up until the majority of the province’s reopening plan is complete.

“To make that bigger purchase, people are probably holding off till things get closer to normal,” he said.

Another difficulty during the pandemic is home deliveries. Because of the precautions required, Houle said their work at customer’s door’s is limited.

“Simple fact of delivering, [you] can’t deliver into the house as easily as you normally would during regular times,” he said. “So, [we’ve] had to just drop off or do lots of pickup stuff.”

Houle said once the economy picks up, he’s looking forward to welcoming back employees.

“Hopefully as things progress in the province, we’ll be able to bring everybody back online as soon as possible.”

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josh.ryan@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @JoshRyanSports