The Croatian consumer boycott against rising prices is gaining momentum, with more retailers taking action to address public frustration. Following last Friday’s protest, which led to a 53% drop in retail sales, Croatian shoppers have now begun a week-long boycott targeting Lidl, Eurospin, and DM, along with Coca-Cola, bottled water, and dishwashing detergent.
The boycott, organized by the Halo Inspector consumer advocacy group, aims to pressure both retailers and the government into taking stronger action on price regulation. The Croatian government has responded by expanding price controls from 30 to 70 essential products, including bread, pasta, dairy products, and dishwashing detergent—but excluding Coca-Cola, bottled water, and carbonated drinks.
Prime Minister Andrej Plenković acknowledged the boycott’s impact, stating, “The state has responded, and others must also get involved. No one will go bankrupt if prices are a little more moderate.”
One of Croatia’s largest retailers, Konzum, has now voluntarily reduced prices on 250 additional products beyond those covered by the government’s list. The price reductions will take effect on February 1 and remain locked until June 1, 2025. The company has pledged that while prices will not increase, they may decrease further during this period.
Konzum CEO Zoran Mitreski stated that the company has already invested €20 million since 2022 to reduce and stabilize prices. He emphasized that Konzum is the only Croatian retailer with an online store, ensuring full transparency of pricing for customers.
The price cuts apply to a wide range of essential goods, including dairy and bakery products, frozen foods, canned goods, beverages, personal care items, and home hygiene products. The average discount is 10%, with some items discounted by more than 30%.
The boycott movement appears to be spreading beyond Croatia, with consumers in North Macedonia calling for a similar supermarket boycott.
As Croatian consumers continue their organized pushback against inflation, the growing pressure on retailers and policymakers suggests further price cuts and regulatory measures could follow in the coming weeks.
