Television sets on display at MegaMart in St Andrew. - Norman Grindley/Deputy Chief Photographer

From August 8 to 24, the whole world will place its focus on the Olympics. But since most Jamaicans won't be able to make the 23-hour journey to Beijing, China, the next best bet is to catch the action via their television sets.

This has seen at least one electrical appliance retailer reporting an increase in television sales over the last few weeks.

Samantha Charles, business services manager at PriceSmart (Jamaica) Limited on Red Hills Road, St Andrew, yesterday told The Gleaner that the company has seen an increase in demand for television sets, but that she could not disclose the specifics.

She said while the retail outlet did not have an Olympic special on TV sets, the company has brought in an additional number of high definition and plasma sets to meet the growing demand.

Gail Parkin, department manager at MegaMart, Upper Waterloo Road in St Andrew, said the store would kick off its Olympic special this week.

"We will be placing TV sets around the store in strategic locations that will be broadcasting ongoing coverage of the Olympics so, while the customers shop, they will also be able to catch a glimpse of their favourite athlete," she said.

As part of its special, MegaMart will also be offering a layaway and an easy-loan plan on television sets.

"We certainly anticipate that there will be an increase in the number of persons who will be coming in to enquire about TV sets," she said.

Parkin was, however, unable to say whether there has been an increase in sales.

MegaMart will also be marking down its prices on specially selected TV sets for the Games.