Swedish supermarkets are implementing dramatic price cuts right before an annual consumer survey. The independent price tracking website Matpriskollen observed reductions up to 25 percent during the week before measurements typically occur.
Hundreds of pensioners from the Swedish Pensioners' Organization are preparing to check food prices nationwide. Their mission is to identify where consumers can find the cheapest grocery basket. This annual survey examines the same common products each year and has been conducted around the same time for decades.
Price tracking data shows how costs changed between October 19 and October 26. This period falls just before and during when the survey normally takes place.
Why do stores drop prices so dramatically right before the survey? The timing appears strategic rather than coincidental. Grocery chains clearly want to appear most affordable when consumers are actively comparing prices.
This annual price check creates temporary relief for shoppers but raises questions about pricing consistency throughout the year. Consumers benefit from lower prices during the survey period but may face higher costs during other months.