On a recent broadcast, we explored a world many aren't familiar with – prepping. It's a topic that's often misunderstood, but who better to explain it than Lincoln Miles, founder of Preppers Shop UK based in Newquay, Cornwall.
What Does "Prepping" Actually Mean?
According to Lincoln, prepping is a broad term. At its core, it's about being prepared for unexpected events. That could be anything from losing a job, winter car breakdowns, or something as extreme as nuclear war. “The level of how far you take it really varies,” Lincoln explains. Some keep extra tins of food at home – others invest in hazmat suits and gas masks.
From Wild Camping to Europe's First Prepper Shop
Lincoln’s journey began over 10 years ago. After reading about an American building nuclear bunkers, his interest in survival and wild camping grew into something bigger. He opened Preppers Shop, which was the first of its kind in Europe. “We celebrated 10 years this January,” he says.
How Big Is the UK Prepping Community?
Though it’s not mainstream, Lincoln insists it’s larger than people realise. “Far more than you'd think take it seriously,” he says. Some prepare for food shortages, power cuts, or the loss of internet infrastructure. Others are concerned about geopolitical conflict, especially since events like the Russia-Ukraine war.
The COVID-19 Pandemic: A Turning Point
“When lockdown was announced, our orders went crazy,” Lincoln recalls. From hazmat suits to gas masks and MREs (Meals Ready to Eat), people began bulk-buying in ways no one expected. “Our month food kits flew off the shelves. People just wanted the reassurance that they had food in the garage or kitchen if needed.”
So... Why the Gas Masks?
Gas masks are Preppers Shop’s biggest-selling category. “It’s reassurance,” Lincoln explains. “You can spend £50 on one and maybe never use it – or it could be the most valuable £50 you ever spent.” Spikes in sales are often linked to world events – from pandemics to natural disasters or cyber threats.
Supplying the Hard-to-Find
Most of Preppers Shop’s specialist gear – especially the NBC (nuclear, biological, chemical) items – is ex-military surplus. “It’s not like you can just call up a supplier and order 100 gas masks,” Lincoln notes. Much of their time is spent sourcing gear worldwide to meet growing demand.
Modern Prepping: More Than Doomsday
Lincoln is quick to point out that prepping in the UK isn’t about bunkers and machine guns. “It’s not extreme like in America. Most of our customers are everyday people who just want peace of mind.” In fact, their Newquay shop is split in two – one half is military surplus and rations, the other half is high-end expedition gear.
The Reassurance of Being Ready
“There’s a feeling of contentment when you know you’re prepared,” says Lincoln. Whether it’s knowing where your torch is or having a cupboard full of food, that sense of security is at the heart of the prepping mindset. “Prepping isn’t about fear. It’s about confidence and self-reliance.”
Looking Ahead: Growth and Optimism
With both online and retail sales growing rapidly, Preppers Shop is thriving. “We've grown from just me to a team of ten,” Lincoln says. “We recently opened our store in Newquay, and the demand just keeps growing.”
As the world continues to face uncertainty, more people are turning to preparedness – not from panic, but for the comfort of knowing they're ready for anything.
Want to Get Prepared?
If you’re thinking about starting your preparedness journey, check out our long-life food kits, gas masks and NBC gear, or bushcraft essentials. Whether you’re prepping for power cuts or planning an expedition, Preppers Shop has you covered.
Visit our Newquay store or explore the full range online at PreppersShop.co.uk.