Consumer associations and citizens in Serbia have called for a five-day boycott of five large retail chains following a one-day boycott. Dejan Gavrilović from the “Efektiva” association reported that the one-day boycott cost retailers around 4.5 million euros, but failed to produce results, as prices were raised afterward. Economist Dragovan Milićević argued that setting prices in stores is a complex issue involving manufacturers, distributors, and large retail chains, and not solely dependent on supermarkets.
Similar boycotts are taking place in the region, including in Croatia, Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and North Macedonia. Gavrilović emphasized the importance of finding alternatives and not simply returning to the same stores after the boycott. While some have questioned the effectiveness of the boycott, RTS journalist Anica Telesković pointed out that boycotts can have a long-term impact, especially in regions like Croatia.
Economist Milićević explained that pricing is influenced by factors beyond retail chains, including supply and demand, bargaining power with suppliers, and inflation. He also noted that prices for some products, like olive oil, have risen due to inflation and imported costs. Gavrilović agreed that margins are a key issue and pointed out that consumers should be more conscious of their purchasing decisions to influence pricing.
In Montenegro and Croatia, similar boycotts have led to decreased sales, with Croatia recording a 44% drop in fiscal bills issued on one Friday during the boycott. Milićević argued that the problem is systemic, involving lower production in agriculture, which contributes to higher prices. He believes prices can be lower, as seen in the European Union, but that systemic issues must be addressed first.
