Convenience stores are cashing in on the success of the Netflix TV series Squid Game with branded merchandise that is selling out within a day.

One Stop Leamington Spar owner Sunder Sandher received a delivery of Squid Game themed accessories yesterday and is already reporting strong sales. He told Better Retailing: “We’re selling key rings for £5 and masks for £8 and they started selling as soon as they were in. It’s a trend so it’s about getting in early, or at least checking that you’re the first to sell it in the local area.

“There’s no point just putting it on the shelf, you have to highlight these types of crazes on social media as well. We’re thinking of getting the full costumes in as well for Halloween, especially as we have so many university students on our doorstep.”

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Another store owner commented: “We are selling the masks. We only placed a small order of 30 and sold out today.”

Gruesome Korean adventure drama Squid Game follows several hundred people trapped on an island and forced to compete in deadly versions of playground games for a cash prize. “I’m shocked by how many kids are buying these accessories, and that they’ve been allowed to watch it,” said Sandher.

Retailers reported sourcing the products through other store owners already stocking the accessories, two wholesalers that stores had claimed to be selling Squid Game accessories both denied selling the accessories when contacted by Better Retailing, citing ‘licensing issues’.

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