Shopkeepers warn of ice cream and cold drink shortage this summer
It's due to rising energy costs
Shopkeepers are warning of an ice cream and cold drink shortage this summer, as the cost of keeping the fridge and freezer on is causing energy costs to soar even higher.
That's according to new research from Uswitch which found that almost 1 in 3 consumer-facing businesses are reducing their use of electrical appliances, like fridges, to minimise their energy consumption.
Jack Arthur, energy expert at Uswitch for Business said: "There are ways that shop owners can manage their energy output, without discouraging customers from shopping with them. Businesses should check the energy rating of existing appliances and when they were last serviced, to ensure they are running as efficiently as possible.
“They could also look to install lighting systems with timed switches and movement sensors, which could help ensure lights are only on when they’re really needed. Installing a smart metre may help shopkeepers to detect where energy is being wasted so they can take action.
“Businesses should also be making sure they’re on the most suitable energy tariff. For those with contracts coming up for renewal, shopping around or seeking expert advice could save a sizable sum."
Katherine Meadow who owns Suffolk Meadow Ice, making sweet treats in the East said: "It would be a real shame if stores were to turn their freezers off now right at the start of the busy season. Ice cream is a great revenue stream and it's going to be getting busier so hopefully that's enough for people to keep going."
"As a small manufacturer we have to be making our products ahead of time, so actually we have already stocked our freezer very well ready for the busy season so we can continue to produce over the summer and have enough product provide to all of our customers. So for us it would be really not good news if people were starting to turn off their freezers."