The “Fornite phenomenon” has driven a huge boost in gaming product sales over the last year according to Argos’ latest report.
In its “Year in Tech” report, which analysed a year’s worth of technology sales statistics and search volumes, Argos has identified the leading trends in the sector and what social factors may have driven them.
The dramatic popularity of the battle royal multi-platform game Fortnite is understood to have driven a 38 per cent boost in gaming product sales, with no sign of the phenomenon slowing before the Christmas period.
“Based on previous gaming phenomena like Pokemon Go two years ago, we predict that Fortnite fever will peak this Christmas as more of our customers spend their free time immersing themselves in the game,” Argos’ head of entertainment Nick Hill said.
4K TVs also were also up 43 per cent year-on-year, while jumbo TV sales skyrocketed 318 per cent thanks to the “Netflix effect”, as the streaming giant expanded the 4K content it offered.
Smart home products reportedly saw a 161 per cent uptick in sales this year, as the country continues to adopt voice technology to “help out with household tasks”.
New legislation also drove a 91 per cent boost in drone sales, peaking thanks to their continuous coverage in the news.
Argos’ tech and electricals trading director Jon Wiltshire added: “This past year has seen Brits embracing tech in a way they never have before, whether it’s smart speakers to help out with household tasks or bespoke gaming and TV set-ups to customise the home entertainment experience.
“Tech continues to find new audiences as people lose the ‘fear factor’ and realise how the raft of incredible products now available enhance their everyday lives.”
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