Boycott of large retail chains was deemed successful, according to the Alternative Montenegro organization, which initiated the action. Journalists reported that markets of major retail chains were nearly empty, with very few customers present.
Citizens surveyed by the media supported the boycott, citing it as a justified response to the ongoing price hikes. They see the boycott as a potential tool to pressure retailers and manufacturers to reconsider their pricing practices.
The Tax Administration announced that the effects of the boycott, in terms of its impact on the sales of retail chains, will only be known by mid-next week, as it lacks the technical capability to provide real-time data.
Zarija Pavićević from Alternative Montenegro stated that, based on available information, the boycott was successful. He indicated that they would plan next steps and inform the public in the coming days, with the possibility of extending the boycott to three days next week or focusing on specific stores or products.
Support for the boycott came from various groups, including the Union of Free Trade Unions, the Association of Pensioners, and even Prime Minister Milojko Spajić, who expressed understanding for citizens’ motives. However, some business associations criticized the boycott, arguing that it unfairly targets the economy and that retail chains in Montenegro have lower profit margins compared to neighboring countries.
In various towns across Montenegro, the boycott was widely observed. Markets in Kolašin, Danilovgrad, and Bijelo Polje saw a significant decrease in foot traffic. In Kotor and Cetinje, many citizens also supported the action, with fewer shoppers than usual in supermarkets.
Prime Minister Spajić, in response to the boycott, stated that the government would continue to encourage competition to lower prices while increasing profits. He expressed confidence that the messages sent during the boycott had been heard clearly.
