Warning signal from bakers โ Urgent support measures requested
Bakers in Greece are calling for immediate support measures due to unprecedented financial pressures on small and family-owned bakeries.
Bakeries in Greece are facing a critical situation, leading the Athens, Suburbs and Surrounding Areas Baker's Association to submit a memorandum to the Ministry of National Economy and Finance, as well as to political parties, demanding urgent support. The industry is reportedly at a breaking point as small, family-run businesses struggle under an enormous burden of financial pressures resulting from skyrocketing energy costs, which are essential for the bakery's production processes.
In their appeals, bakers emphasized that the continuous increases in the prices of electricity, natural gas, and fuel have drastically impacted their operations. The production of bread is heavily energy-dependent, and the rising costs have made it increasingly difficult for bakeries to maintain their operations and profitability. Adding to their misery, international geopolitical developments and military conflicts have disrupted energy and raw material markets, amplifying uncertainty and further escalating production costs.
Bakers are firm in stating that they have already absorbed many financial shocks but are at risk of their businesses collapsing without timely assistance. They are advocating for legislative measures to alleviate their current struggles and sustain their vital role in the food supply chain in Greece, as their ability to provide essential goods greatly impacts both local economies and communities.