Debenhams cooling sales surge 232% as UK heat reshapes spending

Debenhams Group, which also owns Karen Millen, Boohoo, BoohooMan and PrettyLittleThing, said the figures showed extended periods of hot weather were increasingly shaping purchasing decisions across home and outdoor categories. Gazebo and sun lounger search interest more than tripled year on year, the retailer said.

A company spokesperson said weather remained one of the biggest influences on shopping behaviour. Shoppers were seeking immediate relief from the heat and products that would last into warmer summers, the spokesperson said.

"Alongside fans and air conditioning, this summer we're seeing exceptional demand for everything from BBQs and garden furniture to picnic essentials and entertaining accessories, as more people embrace outdoor living and host friends and family at home," the spokesperson said.