Greek bakers warn of industry crisis due to energy costs

The Association of Bakers of Athens, Suburbs, and Surrounding Areas has issued an urgent warning regarding the survival of traditional bakeries in Greece. During a bread festival held at Klathmonos Square to mark World Bread Day, industry representatives highlighted that approximately 1,500 bakeries have closed within the last three years.

Iasonas Kaplanis, president of the Association, identified skyrocketing energy costs as the primary challenge facing the sector. He noted that energy-related expenses have increased by 40% to 50%, which has also driven up the price of essential raw materials. The association emphasized that while bakers have attempted to absorb price increases to support consumers, the rising costs threaten the social role and economic viability of local neighborhood bakeries.