Market in shock: price disparity and shortages against the backdrop of inflation

As of August 13, 2026, the Ukrainian food market has faced a new wave of instability. A price monitoring survey conducted by RBC-Ukraine in the largest retail chains has revealed a worrying trend: the cost of staple foods, such as bread and cereals, is showing sharp fluctuations. While the price of bread varies across different regions and chains, buckwheat, which has become a symbol of food security, has completely disappeared from shelves in some areas, causing panic among shoppers.

Comparative analysis: «Silpo», ATB, Novus, and «Auchan»

On Thursday, August 13, journalists analyzed the price lists of four retail giants: «Silpo», ATB, Novus, and «Auchan». The results showed a significant disparity in pricing. While the cost of a loaf of bread remained relatively stable in some chains, others recorded a price surge of 15-20% compared to the beginning of the month. The difference in the price of buckwheat is particularly noticeable: where it is still available, the price ranges from 45 to 75 hryvnias per kilogram, depending on the brand and packaging.

Contradictory data

There is a divergence in the interpretation of the reasons for the shortage. On the one hand, representatives of retail chains (specifically the press services of ATB and Novus) state that the absence of buckwheat on the shelves is a temporary logistical delay related to supply disruptions due to weather conditions and transportation difficulties. On the other hand, independent experts and suppliers point out that this could be a result of artificial price suppression or a harvest shortage, which in the long term will lead to an even greater increase in grain prices.

Consumer reaction and forecast

Consumers are reacting to the situation with panic buying, which only exacerbates the shortage. In the queues at the grocery departments of «Auchan» and «Silpo», one can find people buying cereals in bulk. Experts predict that if the supply situation does not normalize within the next two weeks, prices for basic food products could rise by another 10-15%, which will be a serious blow to the budgets of Ukrainian families.