Record-breaking UK summer heat drives garden sales

Garden watering products were up by 28% in value sales in the first seven months of the year versus the same period in 2024, according to NielsenIQ, while peat-free compost rose by 14%. 

In a reassuring sign for outdoor retailers, consumers were happy to spend more on permanent BBQs with sales of gas and charcoal outdoor cookers up by 8% in value terms. In 2024, the coolest summer in a decade meant that disposable BBQs dominated sales. 

The hot weather meant that long periods of outdoor cleaning became that much tougher. Pressure washer sales declined by 9% in value and 7% in volumes following an exceptionally strong 2024. 

Separate data from the Horticultural Trade Association released last month showed that up until June, garden centre sales were running 10% over both 2024 and 2023 levels. 

In its trading report for the first half of the year, Wickes cited strong customer demand across timber, garden maintenance and decorating in helping increase the retailer’s market share during the half to “record levels.”

2025 was the fifth warmest July on record in the UK and hottest since 2018, but the entire summer was likely the hottest on record. The UK had its sunniest spring on record too this year.

“The weather so far this year has been extraordinary and for a number of categories this has provided the boost they very much needed after such a poor season of weather in 2024, said Anthony Creaby, customer success manager at NIQ.

“Our data shows how quickly consumer demand responds to weather conditions and how critical these categories are in keeping the market resilient.”