Konzum the latest target in Croatian shop boycott 

Konzum

Over the past two weeks, Croatia has witnessed a significant movement as citizens express their frustration over escalating prices.

Initiated by the Facebook group “Halo, Inspektore” and supported by the European Consumer Excellence Centre (ECIP), the campaign has garnered backing from unions, political parties, and consumer groups.

In response, a nationwide boycott was organised on 24 January, urging citizens to refrain from shopping. This action led to a 44% drop in transactions and a 53% decrease in sales value.

Building on this momentum, organisers have announced further actions.

Latest boycott

A one-day boycott of all forms of shopping is scheduled for Friday, 7 February 2025, from 00:00 to 24:00 hours.

Additionally, a week-long boycott targeting the retail chain Konzum will commence on Saturday, 8 February, and conclude on Friday, 14 February 2025.

This decision to select Konzum as the first chain targeted was made following a poll in which over 144,000 consumers participated, casting more than 211,000 votes.

Konzum (Photo: Macic7/CC BY-SA 3.0)

The organisers emphasise the power of consumer behaviour in the market, stating, “The consumer can change their behaviour, their preferences and preferences. To cut off the trust. Reduce your consumption. That is his tool in the market. And now we are learning together how to use it to protect their interests.”

According to Eurostat, since 2020, food prices in Croatia have surged by 45%, surpassing the EU average increase of 33%. Staple items have seen notable hikes: bread prices have risen by 61% (EU average 35%), eggs by 63%, fruit by 40%, meat by 38%, and vegetables by 44%.