The long-standing tradition of Czech shoppers finding bargains across the Polish border appears to be coming to an end. A recent price comparison of ingredients for a traditional Easter lamb cake reveals shopping in Poland now costs nearly 20% more than in the Czech Republic.
In a detailed comparison between Kaufland stores in Ostrava, Czech Republic, and Raciborz, Poland, the price gap is striking. The total cost for the Easter lamb cake ingredients came to 172 CZK in Ostrava, while the identical shopping list in Poland reached 202 CZK.
The most significant price differences were found in everyday staples. A liter of long-life milk in Ostrava costs 14.90 CZK, while Polish shoppers pay 24.40 CZK. Butter showed a similar trend, with Czech prices at 56.90 CZK for 250g compared to the Polish equivalent of 72.50 CZK.
The shift in pricing can be attributed to Poland’s policy changes. The country’s zero VAT rate on food items, implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic, ended last spring. Additionally, Poland has experienced significant inflation, with consumer prices rising 5.3% year-over-year in January, up from 4.7% in December.
Despite higher grocery prices, Czech shoppers haven’t completely abandoned their Polish shopping trips. They continue to find value in targeted purchases of sale items and non-food products, particularly clothing and gardening supplies as spring approaches.