Overview
- Major home-improvement chains report a surge in demand, with some stores temporarily sold out while Hornbach promises replenishment the same day or within one to two days.
- Hagebau says early-January sales of de-icing products nearly matched the total for the previous month.
- The DIY retailers’ trade group BHB reports no supply emergency despite spikes in purchasing and notes that products can also be ordered online.
- Many municipalities limit private salting of sidewalks, though Hamburg has temporarily relaxed its ban in the current severe conditions.
- Environmental groups promote salt-free abrasives such as sand, splitt or lava granulate bearing the Blue Angel label, and the Higher Regional Court in Hamm has ruled wood shavings unsuitable for icy walkways.