Italian consumer spending trends show rising costs and supermarket price variations

An investigation by Altroconsumo into Italian supermarkets reveals that while price differences for brand-name products are narrower than for other goods, the choice of retailer still impacts daily spending. Ipercoop and Spazio Conad were ranked as the most convenient, with consumers able to save approximately 7% compared to Carrefour Market, which was identified as the most expensive in the ranking.

Simultaneously, data from Consumers’ Forum indicates a shift in Italian household spending patterns. While the total value of food expenditures is rising, the actual volume of products purchased is declining. This trend is linked to a significant loss in purchasing power; families have lost an average of over 5,500 euros over the last five years, with an additional estimated loss of 672 euros per family in 2026 due to rising costs in insurance, food, and energy.

Consumers’ Forum has called for an alliance between industry and distribution to combat rising upstream costs such as energy and raw material speculation. The organization is advocating for price stability, accessible quality, and genuine promotions to support consumer interests.