During tough economic times, it is said, publishers usually see a pickup in their business, because people prefer reading and other cheaper ways to spend their free time.
In the case of Russia, which has been suffering from a slowdown in its economy, there are no statistics as to whether the publishing industry is doing particularly well, but gardening accessories are certainly booming.
A drop in oil prices, western sanctions and a lackluster global economy are some of the factors behind Russia’s economic weakness.
As Russians cut back on overseas trips and domestic vacations, they are spending more time gardening, a Hong Kong Trade Development Council report says.
Gardening goods account for as much as 20 percent of the sales of DIY stores across Russia, the report says.
Sales of lawnmowers, leaf blowers, hoses and pumps for outdoor water features have risen about 30 percent this year.
A similar increase has also been witnessed in the sales of garden furniture and barbecue equipment.
In stark contrast, the Russian Federal Statistics Service said outbound tourism in Russia tumbled 31 percent last year.
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