The rising prices in supermarkets along the coast of Montenegro are causing dissatisfaction among both locals and tourists, while owners of Montenegrin retail chains are reportedly profiting. Consumers are questioning how such price fluctuations are possible, while authorities, specifically from the Market Inspection, assert that everything complies with the Law on Internal Trade, which allows for freely formed prices.
An unwritten rule dictates that the summer tourist season, including the current one, sees an increase in prices at supermarkets belonging to well-known Montenegrin retail chains. This has sparked particular discontent among local residents.
“I constantly wonder if the inspection is monitoring this. Honestly, several times I’ve wanted to call them myself and ask how this is possible; it’s a disaster. But things will get better, they’ll get better. Hopefully, soon,” expressed one of the interviewed citizens.
“I’ve noticed that prices vary from day to day. What particularly bothers me is that they regularly send flyers with prices from certain supermarkets, but when you visit the store, those prices are not what’s displayed. Even within the same chain of markets in different locations, prices aren’t consistent,” shared another interviewed citizen.
The work of retailers is monitored, and authorities maintain that everything is in accordance with the law. The seasonal price increases in coastal stores are aligned with the Law on Internal Trade, specifically regarding the free formation of prices, explained market inspector Ratko Bulatović.
“The established price of a product can vary within the same business entity under supervision, such as Voli, Idea Montenegro, and Domaća trgovina. This means that in Voli stores in Budva, Podgorica, or the north, prices can differ due to freely formed pricing. Based on proof of origin, namely supplier invoices, retail calculations are made, and retail prices are determined accordingly. This means that in a Voli store in Budva, margins can be, for example, 30%, whereas in the north or along the coast, they might range from 10% to 20%. The Law on Internal Trade allows for retail pricing based on a determined margin over the purchase price,” clarified Bulatović.
High prices are not favorable for either locals or tourists, leading to widespread complaints. When residents of Podgorica visit the coast, they carefully choose where to shop, noticing immediate price discrepancies for the same items compared to prices in Podgorica. Their reactions are almost identical.
“Why is that? I mean, is it to charge tourists more, but our people live down there too. It’s unfair on both sides, so it’s just unbelievable. I think it’s really ugly and should be controlled by the authorities, whoever is responsible for it,” opined one citizen.
One thing is certain: large retail chains profit well from adjusting prices during the season. Therefore, until the season ends, keep an eye out for sales promotions as retailers strive to attract customers.
