Spain's Food Price Debate Gains Momentum

Javier Guzmán, director of Justicia Alimentaria, has proposed a coordinated consumer boycott of Spain’s largest supermarket chains. The idea is to pressure retailers to lower prices for essential, healthy food.

According to Guzmán, food and non-alcoholic drinks in Spain are now 36% more expensive than five years ago, while wages have not kept pace with these increases.

National food-consumption data shows that over half the population has significantly reduced meat and fish consumption, while more than a quarter have cut back on fruit and eggs. Vegetable and dairy purchases have also dropped by over 10%.

Guzmán argues that consumers are repeatedly told to find cheaper brands or change supermarkets, but the structure of the food market receives less attention. He points to data showing supermarket margins have reached record levels, averaging close to 8%.

The campaigner highlights that while margins alone do not explain rising food prices, they raise questions about price formation across the supply chain. The proposed boycott would aim to pressure large retailers to reduce margins on basic, nutritious products.

The boycott would involve millions of people avoiding major supermarket chains for a week, turning instead to local markets, independent shops, and cooperatives. The goal is to make the demand for lower prices clear to retailers.

Guzmán acknowledges that a boycott alone would not transform the food system, but he believes it could show consumers can act collectively. However, widespread participation is needed to make a significant commercial impact.