Shops will be open on Sunday, April 5, from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m:00 as part of the festive Easter opening hours, as suggested by the trade associations, in order to facilitate consumers during a period of increased commercial activity.
According to the Athens Trade Association, during Holy Week shops will operate with extended hours from 09:00 to 21:00 (Great Monday to Great Thursday), Great Friday from 13:00 to 19:00 and Great Saturday from 09:00 to 15:00. On Easter Sunday and Easter Monday they will be closed for a public holiday.
The estimates of commercial operators for the market trend are positive, while the Greek Super Markets Association assures that there is a sufficient supply of products and an effort to contain prices, despite international pressures and geopolitical uncertainty.
However, according to the Piraeus Chamber of Commerce and Industry (EBEP), the cost of the Easter table appears increased, confirming the transition of Greek households to a new model of “selective spending”. The total cost for a family of four is estimated, according to EBEP’s price surveys at the Central Market in Renti, between 135 and 150 euros, an increase of 10% to 15% compared to 2025.
The obelium remains the determining factor, which acts as a “price guide” for the entire market. Prices range from €12 to €14 per kilo in supermarkets and €14 to €17 in traditional butchers, with the market not ruling out further increases with the overall burden on the production and distribution chain approaching 25%.
Avaluations have also been recorded for other staples such as eggs, brioches and chocolate products – which have seen increases of up to 40% due to the rise in international cocoa prices – while a family’s stew is estimated to cost around 25 to 30 euros.
The image of the market is characterized by EBEP as “two-speed”, with supermarkets absorbing part of the increases through promotions and “decoy” products, especially in obelias, and traditional stores maintaining higher prices, advertising quality and Greek origin.
At the same time, the HBCP said, the trend of changing consumer behavior is strengthening: most consumers are looking for lower prices, choosing smaller quantities or alternative products and making early purchases, taking advantage of the freezer to “lock in” prices.
On a macro level, the chamber adds, inflation continues to affect purchasing power, with food price increases remaining high in recent years, while energy costs and geopolitical developments are weighing on the market.
Vassilis Korkidis, President of the HBCC, said, “The picture of the Easter market for 2026 shows that, despite maintaining overall turnover, consumption volumes are declining. The Easter table, although significantly more expensive, remains affordable for most Greeks, however it is becoming more frugal and cautious, reflecting the decline in real purchasing power.”
As he noted, “the market this year is characterized by limited supply, increased costs and higher prices”, noting however that “nothing stops the celebration of Easter in the village”, underlining the timeless importance of the holidays for Greek society and economy.
