Many of the foods considered “healthy” have a higher cost than those of low nutritional quality. Even so, 73% of consumers say that price and promotions are determining factors when purchasing food and hygiene products. After health, inflation continues to be the factor that most worries Spaniards, followed by the general economic crisis. According to the results of the purchasing barometer of the association of manufacturers and distributors (AECOC), consumers’ baskets are increasingly smaller, with fewer items, rational and opportunistic.

46% of Spaniards have stopped buying products they previously purchased in order to better control spending and 40% go to the market more often, as they make smaller purchases. Marta Munné, head of AECOC’s ShopperView studies, states that the results of the study reveal that the household economy is recovering, but purchasing habits from a more unfavorable economic scenario are still maintained.

Half of consumers expressed that they will continue buying private label products, even though their economic situation has improved, since they feel satisfied with them. While 37% affirm that they will combine these purchases with other branded purchases from manufacturers.

The number of consumers who consider price as their main purchasing criterion above any other variable is high, but has decreased by 15% compared to the previous study. Spanish consumers are gradually regaining confidence in the country’s economy, according to the report. 42% of respondents indicated that they now live comfortably on their current income, which represents an increase of 31% compared to last year.