Gas Supply Concerns Push Induction Stove Sales to Record Levels in India
Indian households are rushing to buy electric induction stoves amid fears of a potential cooking gas shortage tied to the Middle East conflict. The surge has drained stocks online and in physical stores across the country.
Record Sales Surge
Induction stove sales on Amazon India have jumped more than 30-fold compared to normal levels. Rice cookers and electric pressure cookers are up fourfold as households seek alternatives to cooking gas.
Google Trends showed search interest for induction stoves hit a record high on March 12. The spike reflects widespread consumer concerns about LPG availability.
Stock Shortages Widespread
Multiple induction stove models were unavailable on Amazon, Flipkart, Blinkit, and Zepto on Thursday. Several offline retail chains reported fresh supplies were still days away from arrival.
Major appliance brands including Butterfly, Havells India, and Bajaj Electricals showed models marked as “currently unavailable.” The shortage extends across online and brick-and-mortar retail channels.
Demand Surges Beyond Supply
Kitchen appliances maker TTK Prestige reported a threefold surge in induction stove demand. CEO Venkatesh Vijayaraghavan told reporters demand far exceeded available supply.
The company raised production capacity to 100 percent from about 70 percent before the conflict began. TTK Prestige increased staffing by roughly 15 percent to meet demand.
India’s LPG Import Dependence
India is the world’s second-largest importer of liquefied petroleum gas. The government invoked emergency powers to boost household supplies even as availability tightened for commercial users.
Commercial establishments including canteens, hostels, and restaurants face tighter LPG access. This has prompted some businesses to explore alternative cooking methods.
Business Contingency Planning
Restaurant chains including Wow Momo and California Burrito are exploring induction stoves as contingency plans. The shift reflects concerns about sustained gas supply disruptions.
Businesses are preparing for potential extended shortages. The move demonstrates confidence in induction cooking as a viable alternative.
Supply Chain Risks
TTK Prestige and other manufacturers rely on imported components from China and Southeast Asia. Analysts warn that extended disruptions could pose supply risks.
TTK Prestige plans to switch from sea shipments to airlifting components to absorb higher costs and ensure supply continuity. The measure demonstrates commitment to meeting demand despite disruptions.
Middle East Conflict Impact
The Middle East conflict has disrupted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz and the Gulf. Disruptions raise costs and tighten oil and gas supplies from the region.
On Thursday, the Suezmax tanker Shenlong reached Mumbai with Saudi crude. It was the first crude carrier to arrive in India from the Middle East since the conflict erupted in late February.
Market Winners
Large kitchen appliance makers with domestic assembly and strong distribution are best positioned to benefit. TTK Prestige, Butterfly, and Stove Kraft have advantages in meeting the surge.
Companies pricing power and supply chain capabilities will determine long-term success. The crisis creates both opportunity and risk for established players.
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