Retail chains across Serbia, Montenegro, Croatia, North Macedonia, and Bosnia and Herzegovina faced a mass boycott on Friday in response to rising prices. The movement, backed by activist groups, unions, and consumer associations, significantly reduced store foot traffic, forcing some supermarkets to lower prices.
Government and Retailer Reactions
In Montenegro, the Free Trade Unions urged members to participate, with Prime Minister Milojko Spajić supporting fair business practices. In Croatia, a week-long boycott led to a 53% drop in consumer spending, prompting the government to regulate the prices of 70 essential goods. Supermarkets also voluntarily reduced prices on additional products.
Reports from Bosnia and Serbia highlighted empty supermarkets, with few cash registers in operation. Croatian tax authorities confirmed a sharp decline in sales receipts, demonstrating the boycott’s effectiveness. In North Macedonia, the protest received backing from both the government and the opposition.
Consumers remain divided on the boycott’s long-term impact. Some believe it will pressure retailers to maintain fair pricing, while others argue that price hikes will persist without stricter penalties. The widespread participation suggests that citizens are willing to take collective action against economic hardship.