Ice cream, sunscreen, water guns: Products flying off shelves amid heatwave

France is experiencing a surge in sales for products designed to combat the heatwave, with consumers flocking to supermarkets for relief. According to data from the Circana firm, sales of solar products jumped 76% in volume in the week prior, as high temperatures began to affect parts of the country.

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Last week, we sold 2.5 million ice creams

Ice cream sales have also seen a significant boost. "Last week, we sold 2.5 million ice creams," stated Alexandre Bompard, CEO of Carrefour, on BFMTV. NielsenIQ figures for the Association of Ice Cream Companies show a 25% increase in sales volume and value between May 18 and June 14 compared to the same period in 2025. Individual ice cream bars led the growth, with sales up 30% in value and 27% in volume.

Beyond frozen treats, sales of fresh vegetables rose 51% and fresh soups by 42%. Beverages also benefited, with sales of flavored waters up 41%, plain sparkling waters by 39%, and non-alcoholic shandies and beers by 38%. "The heatwave last week not only boosted sales, it reconfigured consumption priorities," noted Emily Mayer, research director at Circana. She added that more frequent and longer heatwaves will likely lead to lasting changes in consumer behavior.

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The heatwave last week not only boosted sales, it reconfigured consumption priorities

As the heatwave continues, many French households are also investing in ways to cool their homes. Sales of air conditioners and fans are soaring, with portable mini-fans also seeing increased demand. At the retailer Boulanger, sales of fans and air conditioners have grown by over 30% compared to the previous year.

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episodes of canicule more frequent and longer will install durablement ces arbitrages dans les habitudes de consommation