In Hungary, amidst an inflationary environment, consumers are increasingly focusing on the price and volume of vegetables and fruits, with promotions maintaining a critical role. DélKerTÉSZ, representing 500 producers in Szentes, reported at a press event on September 18 that despite a decrease in producer prices, a record quantity of produce was delivered to domestic supermarket chains. The organization's sales for the first eight months reached nearly HUF 14 billion, marking a HUF 2 billion decrease year-on-year. Sándor Nagypéter, the president, attributed the reduction in volume to adverse weather conditions and viral infections, notably affecting the quality and quantity of paprika.
Consumer price sensitivity remains influential in the Hungarian market, with promotions essential for moving substantial volumes, particularly noted in the first half of the year. European consumers, including Hungarians, are becoming more conscious of their purchases, leading to a rise in sales of juiced vegetables, where consumers buy the exact quantities they need. Despite economic pressures, there's a noted preference for tastier vegetable varieties, such as tomato specialties, which saw an increase in sales by more than 960 tons this year, even as consumers may forego fresh market tomatoes and peppers for other basic vegetables.
The inflationary crisis has also impacted vegetable prices, with most fresh market products seeing a decrease in producer prices. White pepper and capia prices fell by 7 percent, bell pepper by 10 percent, and tomatoes experienced the largest decline at 15 percent. Conversely, sharp hot pepper prices saw an annual increase of 10 percent.
Source: Trade Magazin