Data released today by the price comparison and marketplace platform KuantoKusta revealed a significant increase in demand for emergency items on Monday and Tuesday, compared to the preceding two days.
Among the products most sought after by the Portuguese during these days to cope with electricity outages were radios (an increase of 4,594%), powerbanks (up by 1,728%), and portable stoves (rising by 348%), according to a statement.
KuantoKusta noted that the blackout “triggered an immediate response from consumers, who are purchasing solutions en masse to ensure autonomy in emergency situations.”
The platform also highlighted that civil protection experts emphasized the importance of maintaining updated emergency kits, including radios, flashlights, batteries, and alternative cooking methods, amid unexpected events such as last Monday’s incident.
“The sudden rush for these items reveals not only a concern among consumers about potential future electricity supply failures but also an attempt to be more prepared for emergencies,” explained André Duarte, commercial director of KuantoKusta, in the press release.
The marketplace leader at KuantoKusta further detailed that “as of today, KuantoKusta has not identified significant price variations in these products.”
A widespread power supply disruption affected Portugal and Spain on Monday for approximately 10 to 11 hours, with authorities yet to provide an explanation.
Closed airports, transportation and traffic congestion in major cities, and fuel shortages were some of the consequences of the blackout.
The electricity distribution network operator E-Redes assured on Tuesday morning that services were fully restored and normalized.
