The topic of the price of bread is once again on the agenda due to rising production costs. After the most popular white bread in Haskovo officially increased in price by 6 euro cents, bakers in Northwest Bulgaria are also warning of an inevitable correction of labels in the coming months, bTV reports.
The industry is experiencing serious difficulties due to the surge in oil prices, which remain above $100 per barrel. In a production workshop in Montana, bread maker Valeri Krastev, who has over 35 years of experience in the sector, explains that prices have not been changed for a long time.
Valeri Krastev: "The most popular bread has not increased in a year and a half. At the moment, the pressure is enormous, because fuel prices have gone up and dragged everything else down."
Although manufacturers are trying to keep prices down so as not to burden consumers further, economic reality is pressing them. In addition to expensive raw materials and energy, the rise in labor costs is also a serious factor. Employees are also feeling the inflation and are demanding higher wages.
Regarding the upcoming changes and the compensation for these costs, the expert is adamant that the burden will be transferred to the end consumer.
Currently, the most common white bread weighs about 600-650 grams, with its price varying according to retail outlets and suppliers. In Haskovo, it is already being sold for 95 euro cents. According to the industry, the 6 euro cent increase is absolutely minimal against the backdrop of rising prices for vegetables, fruits and dairy products.
For the Northwest, forecasts indicate that labels will be adjusted by 5 to 10 euro cents within the next two to three months, if the trend of high energy costs continues. Producers remain on the lookout, but admit that in the current situation, a new price increase is practically inevitable.