According to the Executive Secretary of the Pancyprian Association of Supermarkets (PASYPE) Andreas Hadjiadamou, expectations that Easter table prices will skyrocket to record levels are in the realm of imagination, with the expert clarifying that, despite any prevailing "paraphilology," as he characterises it, the expected traffic, purchases and prices, which consumers will face, will be at normal levels.
"The reality is very different from what is being heard, as, regardless of the facts and the difficult current situation, we know well how to adapt in the supermarket industry, since this is not the first crisis we are experiencing," he told InBusinessNews, also noting that the facts themselves will refute, as always, those who exaggerate and create confusion among consumers.
Supporting consumers with offers and discounts
Hadjiadamou pointed out that prices for the Easter table will be good, expressing the assessment that market activity and turnover will be at least at the same levels as last year, with consumers purchasing, as every year, the necessary products and dishes.
"Despite the negative circumstances, supermarkets will support consumers with offers and discounts, absorbing as much of the increased cost as possible. This is something that will be proven by the demand itself and the traffic that is expected to exist in the market," the executive secretary of the PASYPE emphasised in this regard, indicating that seriousness and conscientiousness are required on the part of professionals, as those who exploit the current crisis will only achieve, as he says, is to kill consumption and cause damage to food retail.
One way or another, nothing will be missing from the Easter table.
He also assured that there is a sufficient supply of products and that their prices will be maintained at normal levels. “People should not worry about any shortages in the market, especially meat (lamb and goat), as one way or another, even under the foot-and-mouth disease crisis, nothing will be missing from the Easter table,” said Hadjiadamou, explaining that increases or shortages are not justified. “We have the ability to adapt and have built a relationship of trust with various suppliers. The increased demand will be covered by both domestic suppliers and imports,” he stressed, noting that the problem is not as serious as it is presented.
Supermarkets also welcome the measures announced by the President of the Republic aimed at further relieving households and supporting the real economy. According to Andreas Hadjiadamou, these are measures moving in the right direction, which will relieve citizens and create a positive mindset, which will be reflected in the market. “If we consider that approximately 20% of each household’s budget in supermarkets concerns meat, fish and poultry, then the imposition of zero VAT on these products will relieve consumers and strengthen their purchasing power,” he pointed out.
(Source: InBusinessNews)
