GfK Research: Consumerist market increased 18% against the same 2008 quarter

The large consumption products’ market increased 18% in the first 2009 trimester against the same period in 2008, as a result of the 10% increase in price values and a 7% plus in the consumption rate, according to a GfK research, cited by Romanian news agency NewsIn. The most exposed to the prices’ increase are people in Moldova region (East Romania), while in Bucharest, consumption rate is increasing.

„Even if basic foods cost 8% more, people did not compromise on dairies, pasta or coffee. In regards to basic non-food products (detergents, tooth paste, shampoo etc.) they were bought less frequently, but in 6.5% bigger quantities”, the study shows.

The families most affected by the increase in price have been the families with small and medium incomes and those families where the main finance supplier is aged 40 to 49. But there are families that, despite the crises, consume more than before. The main income supplier in this case holds a university degree.

According to the study, people started shopping more frequently in hypermarkets and supermarkets, drawn by special offers. As a result, local and traditional shops have been most affected by crises, their sales dropping slightly against their value in 2008.

The study featured 2,200 households on a national level. GfK is one of the biggest market research institutes in Romania.