We have all perceived how when shopping at the supermarket, filling our car is now more expensive that a year ago. A perception that a recent study by the Organization of Consumers and Users (OCU) only confirms.
The OCU affirms that the average rise is 9,4% and that some chains are applying price increases that exceed 10%. But, what are the products most affected by this rise and the reasons for it? Discover the results of the study.
The OCU study
The study we are referring to today has been recently published by the Organization of Consumers and Users (OCU). To carry it out, between March 20, 2021 and March 8, 2022, the prices of 156 products of both food, drugstore and hygiene of white label and product brand of 9 supermarket chains were analyzed.
The OCU warns in this study a increase of 9,4% in the shopping basket, which could lead to an increase of more than 500 euros per year in the shopping basket for an average family. Worrying data, no doubt.
The increases are felt especially in the white label products, since they start from lower prices. But what are the products that go up in price? With this study they have been revealed.
Supermarket products whose price has risen more
Among the supermarket products that have had a greater increase in their prices, stand out the olive oil soft white brand (53,6%), followed by white brand sunflower oil (49,3%). Both products are the main affected by the war in Ukraine, the second by direct consequence and the first, by an increase in demand.
Other products seriously affected by this rise are margarine, pasta, bananas from the Canary Islands or fresh salmon that also exceed 30%. Fish (16%), packaged foods (11%) and dairy products (11%) have been other groups of products where increases have been notorious.
But all prices have not increased, according to the ecu there is a 16% of the products that are now cheaper. Most are drugstore products, such as soap, toothpaste, razors or bathroom cleaners, although there are also some foods.
Supermarkets where prices have risen the most
The study states that not all supermarket chains have increased their prices in the same way between March 2021 and March 2022. Carrefour and Mercadona they head the list with a rise of 12,1% and 11,4% respectively. They continue to remain, however, among the cheapest national chains where you can make your purchase along with Alcampo.
With a less bulky increase, they are followed in this particular list by Eroski, with 9,5%, Alcampo (9,2%), Dia (8,5%), Caprabo and Condis (8,4%) and El Corte English and Hipercor (7,7%).
Why have prices gone up?
The consumer organization has explained that the price escalation responds to different factors. The rise in prices of energy and raw materials, such as fertilizers, wheat or oil, as well as the impact that the impact of the war in Ukraine is having are some of the most important:
- The escalation of energy prices. During the pandemic, production of gas and other fossil fuels was reduced to adjust to low demand. The sharp rebound in activity caused an imbalance and caused the prices of these fuels to rise.
- Rising price of raw materials, such as fertilizers, wheat or oil, which are taxed on the production and distribution of agricultural and livestock holdings
- the ukrainian war and the consequent geopolitical tensions have increased the prices of cereals and other products
- The stoppage of transport which could cause punctual price increases.
Have you noticed this rise in your shopping cart? The price of what supermarket products has surprised you most recently? The rise in prices is a fact, that is why the need to compare the price of the same product, according to the brand or the place of purchase, is essential to maintain a healthy economy in many families.