Greek supermarkets, government discuss measures to curb living costs

Representatives of the Hellenic Supermarket Association met with Development Minister Takis Theodorikakos on Wednesday to discuss measures aimed at helping households manage rising living costs.

According to the association, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to supporting consumers through coordinated efforts designed to keep essential goods affordable in the coming months.

Supermarket operators highlighted ongoing efforts to absorb part of the inflationary pressures affecting the market and maintain competitive prices despite higher costs linked to tensions in the Middle East.

They also noted that prices for packaged foods and other consumer products sold in Greek supermarkets remain below the European average.

Inflation eases slightly in May

Data released by the Hellenic Statistical Authority showed that annual inflation eased to 5.2% in May from 5.4% in April. However, the rate remained significantly higher than the 2.5% recorded in May last year.

Despite the slight slowdown, prices continued to rise across several key categories, including food, energy and services.

Among food products, the largest annual increases were recorded in beef (17.6%), lamb and goat meat (16.2%), salted and preserved fish (12.6%), margarine and vegetable fats (10.6%), poultry (6%), coffee (5.2%), processed meats (4.9%), vegetables (4.1%) and fruit (3.5%).

Energy and housing costs remain elevated

Outside the food sector, significant price increases were recorded in housing and energy-related expenses.

Residential rents rose by 7.7% year-on-year, while natural gas prices increased by 21%. Diesel fuel climbed 24.4%, gasoline rose 21.5%, and other fuels recorded a sharp 34.8% increase.

Higher costs were also reported in air passenger transport, up 9.2%, and jewelry and watches, which rose 16.2%.

The latest figures underline the continued pressure on household budgets despite signs of easing inflation.