UK retailers report sharp rise in sales of torches and radios after government urging to stock up

Following Defence Secretary Wes Streeting's call for the public to stockpile essentials, UK retailers reported significant sales spikes. Maplin saw radio sales rise 160% and torch sales 284% since the government's "Be Ready" campaign launch. Iceland reported a 40% increase in canned food sales. Independent retailer Josh Pringle said his sales increased tenfold, with most orders for wind-up radios.