Impending shrinkflation and skimpflation 2023: Expert warns of price increases for hidden product changes

Impending shrinkflation and skimpflation 2023: Expert warns of price increases for hidden product changes

According to a report by www.proplanta.de, 2023 was a challenging year for consumers in Germany. The consumer advice center MV reported on hidden price increases that arose from the phenomenon of “shrinkflation”. This involves reducing the quantity of food and drugstore products while simultaneously increasing the price. Industrially manufactured food and everyday products such as snacks, confectionery, cheese, frozen food, detergent and shower gel are particularly affected. According to the consumer advice center, some products have become up to 20 percent more expensive due to the reduced filling quantity, and some have even increased by more than 75 percent.

Rising food prices and the need for advice in the area of ​​energy were the most important issues for the consumer advice center in 2023. Energy prices for private households were lower compared to their peak in 2022, but still significantly above pre-crisis levels. The heated discussion about the federal heating law has left the consumer advice center with an enormous need for advice.

The phenomenon of “shrinkflation” and the ongoing energy prices will remain central issues for the consumer advice center in MV in 2024. Consumers are asked to report deceptive packaging and compare basic prices per kilogram or liter in order to counteract the effects of “shrinkflation”. This could lead to increased consumer awareness and possibly increased pressure on manufacturers to be more transparent and customer-friendly.