Speaking to Gulf Times, LuLu Group International regional manager Shanavas PM highlighted a significant shift in back-to-school shopping trends in Qatar.

He said that with the ongoing digitalisation in education, there has been a huge demand for laptops, tablets, and smartphones as students rely more on modern technology to complete their homework and in-school activities.

This trend, Shanavas noted, reflects the growing emphasis on digital learning tools and platforms, which have become integral to the educational experience in recent years.

As schools continue to integrate technology into their curriculums, it is learnt that students are increasingly dependent on devices that enable them to access digital resources and participate in online classes, among others.

According to Shanavas, electronic devices have become some of the most sought-after items during the back-to-school season, with parents prioritising the purchase of high-quality gadgets to support their children’s education.

To meet this growing demand, he said that LuLu Group International expanded its inventory of electronic devices, ensuring a wide selection of laptops, tablets, and smartphones are available for customers.

Many hypermarkets in Doha introduced various promotions and bundle deals, making it easier for families to afford the necessary technology for the upcoming school year.

Bookstores, local shops, and hypermarkets reported an increase in footfall and online orders as parents seek to ensure their children are well-equipped for the year ahead.

“There is still demand for a variety of items such as basic stationery, like notebooks, pens, and pencils, in addition to more specialised items such as backpacks, calculators, and art supplies,” said a staff of a popular bookstore chain in Qatar. “Families are eager to get everything their children need before the rush closer to the school reopening dates.”

Echoing Shanavas’s view, he said this surge in demand is not just limited to traditional supplies, citing an uptick in sales of digital tools and accessories designed for a better learning experience.

“We’re noticing a trend towards more tech-savvy products. Devices that support online learning and interactive apps are particularly popular this year,” the staff added.

Anticipating an increase in demand, he said they implemented early bird discounts and bundled offers to cater to the needs of budget-conscious families.