Food retail grows in spite of the crisis

Food retail players are unanimously estimating that the Romanian FMCG market will feel the first effects of the financial crisis this year, which will translate into changes in consumer behavior. Romanians will have less money to spend than before, as they can no longer access consumer loans, and have installments to pay on loans they have already taken out.

Meanwhile, the FMCG segment will be a major employer, providing over 15,000 jobs.

Romanians will continue to opt for basic goods, and will choose less expensive brands. They will target such brands as justify their price, choosing medium and own brand segments. Consumers are also expected to shop more rarely and buy more products.