Major hypermarkets and retailers in Qatar have witnessed a surge in demand for cookware sets and baking equipment, as well as other kitchenware and accessories, amid the coronavirus disease (Covid-19) outbreak, it is learnt.
From peelers, all-purpose knives, cutting boards and mixing bowls to pans, skillets, and cooking appliances like food processors and mixers, many residents have felt the need to purchase such items while working from or just staying at home.
LuLu regional regional manager Shanavas P M told Gulf Times that many of their cookware and baking tools are fast-moving items even during the Covid-19 pandemic.
He noted that LuLu stores have seen record sales in the current situation and stocks had at times run low but were immediately refilled.
One of the reasons for the demand surge, Shavanas said, is that home cooking has become a trend as many people find it safe, healthy and practical to prepare their own meals for the family.
It is learnt that many people also want to learn new skills such as cooking and are enticed to buy cookware used by their favourite chefs who vlog on YouTube or other social media channels such as Instagram.
An employee of a renowned specialty store in Qatar said most of their baking essentials, including measuring cups, silicone mat and rubber spatulas, were sold out a couple of weeks ago.
“We thought this Covid-19 pandemic will substantially reduce our sales but it was the other way around. We were so busy until now, we’re hoping our next shipment will come very soon,” she said.
The employee noted that many customers placed their orders online or personally visited the store when Qatari authorities started the gradual lifting of Covid-19 restrictions.
Due to the huge demand for some essential items and accessories for cooking and baking, many residents are prompted to order on popular e-commerce companies such as Amazon, Rakuten and e-Bay, among others.
“The downside is I have to pay the shipping fee and wait for a few days for the delivery. So, what I and my friends do is to pool our orders so everyone gives his or her own share for the total charge,” a homemaker said.
“The good thing is that all of the essential cooking and baking products such as flour, yeast, sugar, egg, salt, butter and milk are readily available locally,” she added.
LuLu regional regional manager Shanavas P M told Gulf Times that many of their cookware and baking tools are fast-moving items even during the Covid-19 pandemic.
He noted that LuLu stores have seen record sales in the current situation and stocks had at times run low but were immediately refilled.
One of the reasons for the demand surge, Shavanas said, is that home cooking has become a trend as many people find it safe, healthy and practical to prepare their own meals for the family.
It is learnt that many people also want to learn new skills such as cooking and are enticed to buy cookware used by their favourite chefs who vlog on YouTube or other social media channels such as Instagram.
An employee of a renowned specialty store in Qatar said most of their baking essentials, including measuring cups, silicone mat and rubber spatulas, were sold out a couple of weeks ago.
“We thought this Covid-19 pandemic will substantially reduce our sales but it was the other way around. We were so busy until now, we’re hoping our next shipment will come very soon,” she said.
The employee noted that many customers placed their orders online or personally visited the store when Qatari authorities started the gradual lifting of Covid-19 restrictions.
Due to the huge demand for some essential items and accessories for cooking and baking, many residents are prompted to order on popular e-commerce companies such as Amazon, Rakuten and e-Bay, among others.
“The downside is I have to pay the shipping fee and wait for a few days for the delivery. So, what I and my friends do is to pool our orders so everyone gives his or her own share for the total charge,” a homemaker said.
“The good thing is that all of the essential cooking and baking products such as flour, yeast, sugar, egg, salt, butter and milk are readily available locally,” she added.
