Bulgarian bakers warn of potential bread price increases

Bakery producers in Bulgaria are warning of potential bread price increases due to rising production and logistics costs. Tsvetan Georgiev, a baker from the village of Ploski, noted that the cost of production has already risen by approximately 5%.

The primary drivers for this economic pressure include significant increases in the prices of diesel, wheat, electricity, and transportation. Georgiev highlighted that fuel costs, approaching 2 euros per liter, are the most influential factor affecting both production and the distribution of finished goods.

While producers are currently attempting to maintain existing prices to keep bread affordable, they warn that a price hike may be necessary in the coming months if costs continue to climb. If an increase occurs, it is expected to be gradual rather than a sudden shock, potentially reaching around 10%. This could bring the price of certain types of bread to approximately 1.20 euros. Producers also anticipate that higher prices will inevitably lead to a contraction in consumer demand.