In March 2024, consumers in Russia showed a notable uptick in air conditioning purchases, with split systems and air conditioners selling 25% more than in the same period the previous year. This trend was confirmed to socialbites.ca by the press service of M.Video-Eldorado, the large retail chain known for its consumer electronics and home appliances. The momentum underscores a seasonal shift as households anticipate the approaching warmer months and look to upgrade cooling capacity ahead of summer heat.
During the incomplete first quarter, cooler sales rose by 20% year over year, reflecting a broader consumer appetite for climate control solutions. Between March 18 and March 24, 2024, demand surged most strongly in the Urals region with a 140% increase, followed by the Volga region at 65%. In Siberia, the top three regions reported a 55% upswing in sales, highlighting regional variance tied to climate, housing stock, and market penetration of cooling technologies. The company attributes these gains to preparations for the summer season, as households and small businesses gear up to ensure reliable cooling during peak heat periods.
Among the brands driving popularity this year, Rapid, Electrolux, Haier, and Carrera stood out for air conditioners and split systems. Carrera, in particular, drew attention for its smart-device attributes, including automatic temperature control features that appeal to consumers seeking convenience and energy efficiency. This emphasis on smart cooling devices aligns with broader consumer trends toward connected home electronics and bundled climate solutions that reduce manual intervention while maintaining comfort.
Mikhail Prosvirnin, who leads the Major Home Appliances Department at M.Video-Eldorado Group, observed a parallel rise in demand for maintenance services tied to climate control equipment. Installations, routine maintenance, and seasonal preparation are increasingly common as customers seek to protect their cooling investments and extend the lifespan of their systems amid shifting seasonal usage. The trend suggests that a growing share of purchases comes with ongoing service commitments, signaling a move toward more comprehensive home appliance care.
The sales surge for air conditioning and related climate-control devices in Russia reflects a moment when many households are balancing initial setup costs with long-term comfort, energy considerations, and the practicalities of seasonal wear and tear. While these figures originate from a specific retail chain, they help illustrate the rising importance of reliable cooling solutions in a market where summer temperatures can fluctuate and housing stock varies widely in size and insulation. As brands continue to innovate with smarter controls and more efficient models, consumers increasingly expect ease of use, better efficiency, and dependable performance from their climate systems. [Source: press service of M.Video-Eldorado]