The price hike in Antalya 3 days ago was not enough: They want another price hike
Antalya started 2025 with a rise in bread prices. The price of a 210-gram loaf increased by 25%, from 10 TL to 12.5 TL. However, Antalya Metropolitan Municipality's Halk Ekmek and the Kepez Foundation kept the bread price fixed at 7.5 TL. While the price differences sparked discussions, statements by the Chairman of the Antalya Bakers' Guild, Murat Ülger, drew significant attention.
Some bakeries in Antalya continue to sell 210-gram loaves at the old price of 10 TL, while others have adopted the new pricing, selling bread for 12.5 TL. Municipality-supported Halk Ekmek and the Kepez Foundation offer bread at an economical price of 7.5 TL.
PRICE INCREASES INSUFFICIENT, NEW HIKE NEEDED
Chairman of the Bakers' Guild, Murat Ülger, stated that rising costs inevitably impact bread prices. Ülger argued that the current price hike is insufficient and that the bread price should be at least 15 TL.
BAKERS STRUGGLE WITH COST INCREASES
Ülger emphasized that rising costs are putting bakers in a tough spot:
“We apply for price adjustments months in advance. However, the increases in raw material costs after the New Year have further raised our expenses. With the rising prices of flour, energy, and other inputs, it’s becoming very difficult for us to stay afloat.”
LOW-PRICED MUNICIPAL BREAD SPARKS DEBATE
Ülger also pointed out that municipal bakeries’ low-priced bread intensifies competition:
“Municipalities are opening bakeries in every district and village. This further escalates competition in the sector. We are now competing with the state and municipalities. It seems unlikely that this chaos in the industry will end anytime soon.”
WHAT WILL CITIZENS CHOOSE?
The differences in bread prices in Antalya influence citizens' choices. The low-price policy of Halk Ekmek and the Kepez Foundation offers a significant advantage for those facing economic challenges. However, private bakeries are compelled to raise prices to cover their costs. This situation creates tension both for citizens and the sector.
