According to an analysis by Codacons, based on data released by Istat, inflation, which has reached a rate of +1.3% this year, will increase Christmas shopping prices on average. 582 euros for families.
As the holidays approach, therefore, Italians should be prepared to face increasingly large expenses, which poses a risk. Significant impact on their daily budget and consumption in general.
Why do shopping prices go up at Christmas?
The increase in grocery prices during the Christmas season is the result of a combination of economic and behavioral factors that occur each year as the holidays approach.
During the Christmas period, for example, Italian families Increase their consumptionEspecially for purchasing food, beverages and gift products. This increase in demand leads retailers to raise prices, taking advantage of increased demand and people’s willingness to spend more to celebrate the holidays, resulting in a general increase in spending, especially around Christmas. Traditionally associated food products, such as sweets, meat, fish and beverages.
But that’s not it, this year Inflation also plays an important role In the rise in grocery prices. If inflation is already high, with the inflation rate in Italy at 1.3%, the prices of many goods and services naturally rise, even before the holidays. This leads to massive price increases, which have a huge impact on food costs, which often rise above the average rate of inflation.
If you think about it. Foodstuffs are the most vulnerable to inflation.With seasonal increases especially around Christmas, it’s easy to understand why prices can rise more during the holidays than at other times.
What costs more at Christmas?
Inflation, which usually has a direct effect on costs, particularly affects the prices of the most common goods. Codacons, in particular, signal Significant increase in food and non-alcoholic beveragesAnd, with annual growth of +2.8%, double the average inflation rate. This translates into an additional cost. 256 euros per year for a family with two childrenFor purchase of food items only.
MA The situation gets worse for families with children. If we take into account the prices of food items typically bought at Christmas: “+1.3% inflation translates into an average increase in ‘typical’ family spending of +427 euros per year. +582 euros for a family with two childrenAnalyzes Kodacons.
For this reason, despite these alarming signs, the Consumer Rights Association condemns it. Absence of concrete steps by the government To prevent price gouging. Association president Carlo Rienzi criticizes the inaction of the authorities, who have not taken steps to control prices and combat speculation on consumer goods. Without effective policies to support households’ purchasing power, inflation risks becoming an unsustainable burden, especially for the most vulnerable.
