The Government of the Republic of Bulgaria and leading retail chains have launched the joint project "Basket of Care". The initiative is aimed at achieving stability, predictability, and social responsibility amid inflation by ensuring sustainable access to essential goods and fostering greater transparency across the entire supply chain—from producers to end consumers. Eight retail chains have joined the initiative: Billa, Kaufland, Lidl, Metro, Fantastico, CBA, Minimart, and DAR.
The campaign launches with a minimum commitment period of six months, and participation is voluntary.
Under the initiative, each participating retail chain will select a minimum of 30 essential products to be offered at a discount of at least 15% off the regular retail price, or to be maintained at stable, controlled prices.
This "shared care" model unites the efforts of the state and the business sector to deliver genuine price relief for consumers, while simultaneously reducing the administrative burden on producers and suppliers.
A core priority of the "Basket of Care" national initiative is to stimulate Bulgarian production by encouraging the inclusion of products from domestic farmers and processors in the selected consumer basket. Supporting local producers creates better market opportunities for Bulgarian goods, boosts employment, and contributes to the overall development of the national economy. To make shopping easier for citizens, the products included in the campaign will be clearly marked with a unified logo and a distinctive visual identifier, ensuring quick recognition on the shelves.
A special focus is placed on socially vulnerable groups, for whom access to basic food staples is essential for maintaining a decent standard of living. Through the "Basket of Care," a firm commitment is made to protect the interests of both end consumers and small to medium-sized producers in the agri-food sector. The implementation of these measures aims to prevent excessive price hikes, enhance the competitive environment, and establish best European practices for public-private sector cooperation.
The "Basket of Care" has the potential to evolve into a national model for transparent pricing, curbing speculative practices, and establishing sustainable mechanisms for consumer support and market stability.