Retailers in Singapore have reported a notable surge in demand for air purifiers and air conditioners as persistent haze conditions continue to affect air quality across the island. The increase in sales has been observed over the past several weeks, coinciding with deteriorating atmospheric conditions marked by frequent unhealthy readings on the Pollutant Standards Index (PSI).
Consumer electronics retailer Courts experienced a 600% rise in air purifier sales and a 50% increase in air-conditioner purchases from September 28 to October 12 compared with the same period in 2025. The company attributed the spike to heightened consumer interest in factors such as filter lifespan, room coverage, energy efficiency, and multifunctionality. Courts confirmed it has sufficient inventory across its 12 physical locations and online platforms, offering products from both local and international brands.
Similarly, retailer Gain City reported a ninefold increase in air purifier sales since August, with a sharp surge beginning on October 9. The weekend of October 10 and 11 saw particularly strong demand, with some models selling out and customers opting to purchase display units to avoid delivery delays. Gain City indicated that air quality during this period worsened, with the 24-hour PSI entering the unhealthy range from the night of October 9 onward. In response, the retailer replenished its stocks last week and continues to monitor inventory closely, adjusting restocking efforts based on demand. Beyond air purifiers, Gain City noted increased sales of fans and air conditioners, including units equipped with cooling and air purification features.
Smart technology brand PRISM+ also reported unprecedented demand for air purifiers in October, with sales rising more than six times compared with the previous month. Some purifier models are currently out of stock until November, though the company is expediting restocks expected to arrive in the coming weeks. Air-conditioner sales for PRISM+ increased by over 30% compared with October 2025, and its Neo air-conditioner remains available.
Grocery chain FairPrice observed a slight increase in demand for air purifiers and air-conditioners, alongside strong interest in fans featuring air purification capabilities. Stocks remain available at selected FairPrice outlets, although specific details were not disclosed.
Demand for face masks, especially N95 and KN95 varieties, has also risen amid the haze. FairPrice and Unity stores reported a modest uptick in N95 mask purchases, with steady deliveries ongoing to meet consumer needs. Pharmaceutical retailer Watsons experienced significant growth in face mask sales about a month ago, with demand stabilizing more recently. While some KN95 mask listings were sold out on Watsons’ online store as of October 13, other mask types remained in stock. National University Hospital Pharmacy noted a modest increase in mask demand but maintained adequate reserves. However, several public healthcare-affiliated pharmacies did not list N95 masks for sale on their websites.
As Singapore contends with ongoing haze, retailers continue to adapt to shifting consumer preferences for indoor air quality solutions, balancing inventory levels with elevated product demand.