Food market will grow to PLN 243 bln this year

The food market will grow by 2.1 percent y/y to PLN 243 billion this year. Growth is generated by discount and convenient stores, according to a report by PMR. "We forecast that in the coming years, due to changing consumer habits, the situation of convenience stores and specialized stores will improve.  In addition, we expect that deflation will end at the end of the summer, making the entire market rise above last year's dynamics," the report read. PMR highlighted that the food market is relatively mature and is not subject to sudden and significant changes depending on deterioration or improvement of the economic situation of consumers or possible changes among the major players. The report also shows that the market is very competitive with lots of small Polish stores competing with major, foreign chains.