An unequal battle in the supermarket: The alarming price differences
The latest results from the Styrian Chamber of Labour are striking: a price difference of an incredible 112 percent between the cheapest and most expensive products in the grocery basket is causing a stir. But what does this mean in concrete terms for consumers? We take a closer look at the figures and the impact on everyday shopping.
The Styrian price gap in detail
For 15 years, AK market research has been collecting prices of everyday products. The current survey shows a slight decrease in the average prices of the AK grocery basket by 1.37 percent. The Styrian basket 2025 includes 17 basic everyday groceries. In total, 522 products were recorded at seven supermarkets and discounters in the categories branded, budget, and organic products. The budget products are the retail chains' own brands such as Clever and S-Budget, the organic products are those that have a recognized quality seal such as the AMA Bio-Siegel or the Bio Austria quality seal, and the branded products are well-known commercial brands like Milka, Schärdinger and Stainzer.
What are the reasons for the massive price differences?
The identical baskets amount to €24.95 for budget products, €46.61 for branded products and €52.93 for organic products. This means the price gap this year is €27.98 or 112 percent. According to Susanne Bauer, head of AK market research, price comparisons are particularly effective for organic and branded products. She explains: "A targeted selection between the products in the different baskets pays off." In fact, there is a price difference of under 100 percent for fruit yogurt, orange juice, bread rolls and whole milk, while price differences of over 400 percent appear for tomatoes and milk chocolate.
Historical background: Why are organic products so expensive?
The high price of organic products is often due to stricter cultivation regulations. Organic farmers do not use chemical pesticides or synthetic fertilizers and rely on sustainable farming practices. These methods are more labor-intensive and often lead to lower yields, which in turn is reflected in higher prices. Historically, demand for organic products has steadily increased over recent decades, which pushed prices further up.
The impact on the average household
For the average household, these price differences can have significant effects. Families with a limited budget often have to fall back on cheaper products, which is not always the healthiest or most sustainable choice. The choice between quality and price presents many consumers with a challenge. Experts warn that rising living costs could further exacerbate social inequality.
A comparison with other Austrian states
The price situation in Styria is not an isolated case. Similar trends can be observed in other Austrian states. In Vienna, for example, food prices are on average higher than in more rural areas, partly due to higher rent and logistics costs. However, a comparison shows that Styria exhibits above-average price differences in some categories.
Figures and statistics: An alarming record
- The average price difference for budget products is 25.78 percent.
- For organic products the difference is 52.22 percent.
- Branded products show a difference of 133.09 percent.
- 93.30 percent of the recorded products are labeled with origin information.
- 74 percent of the products have Austrian origin information.
Expert opinions: What do the experts say?
Economic expert Dr. Karl Meier comments: "The price differences are a clear sign that the food market in Austria is highly segmented. Consumers should be aware that they can influence the market through targeted purchasing decisions."
A look into the future: What awaits us?
The future of the food market in Austria remains uncertain. While demand for organic products continues to rise, ecological and social factors could drive prices even higher. At the same time, technological advances in agriculture could help lower production costs and stabilize prices. Consumers should prepare for price comparisons and conscious purchasing decisions to become increasingly important.
Conclusion: What does all this mean for us?
The current results of the AK market study are a wake-up call for all consumers. The massive price differences show that it pays to compare prices and make conscious decisions. In times of rising living costs, it is more important than ever to pay attention to quality and sustainability without losing sight of the budget.
