Supermarkets are seeking to calm concerns over Easter prices, insisting there are no shortages or extreme increases in lamb, while discounts are expected in the coming weeks.
Market remains under control
The Easter table is not under threat, the Executive Secretary of the Cyprus Supermarkets Association, Andreas Hadjiadamou, told CNA on Tuesday, dismissing claims of panic in the market. He stressed that despite ongoing pressures, the situation remains stable and manageable. According to Hadjiadamou, the only notable increase so far αφορά liquefied gas, which has risen by €4.5 per cylinder. No similar increases have been recorded for other essential products.
No basis for lamb price fears
Hadjiadamou rejected reports of shortages and excessive lamb prices, describing them as exaggerated. “In every crisis we hear the same things. Exaggerations before real data even emerges,” he said. He underlined that supply will be sufficient, with alternative options available even under pressure. Claims that lamb prices could reach €20 per kilo, he added, “have no connection to reality.”
So far, there has been no significant increase in lamb prices compared to last year. Hadjiadamou noted that, based on past experience, prices tend to decrease as Holy Week approaches due to intensified supermarket offers. He added that supermarkets are expected to absorb part of the pressure by reducing their profit margins, signalling support for consumers.
Warning over profiteering
At the same time, he pointed to instances of profiteering along the supply chain, calling for responsibility from all involved.
“There are cases of unjustified increases and we must be careful not to give them space,” he said.
Special reference was made to liquefied gas, which remains the only category showing a clear price rise. Hadjiadamou reiterated that the €4.5 increase per cylinder includes cases of unjustified pricing, warning that such practices will not go unanswered by the association.
Easter table secured
While acknowledging some pressure on supply, he stressed there is no issue in meeting demand. Supermarkets remain in constant contact with suppliers in Cyprus, Greece and other European countries, with imports available if needed. On product quality, Hadjiadamou dismissed any concerns, stating that strict food safety protocols ensure standards remain high. He concluded that this year’s Easter table will remain in line with last year in both availability and pricing.
“The coming days will confirm that the noise of recent weeks was far greater than the actual market reality,” he said.
Source: CNA