Five additional retail chains have joined Bulgaria’s national “Care Basket” initiative, expanding a government-backed program aimed at easing pressure on consumers while supporting domestic producers.
The initiative, announced in early June by Prime Minister Rumen Radev, is presented as a strategic partnership between the state and retailers. Its stated goal is to provide stability, predictability, and social responsibility toward citizens during periods of inflation and economic strain.
The latest companies to join the initiative are “Mercanto,” “RAY,” “Burlex,” “BulMag,” and “Macao.” They add to the initial group of eight chains that entered the scheme at its launch, including “Billa,” “Kaufland,” “Lidl,” “Metro,” “Fantastico,” “CBA,” “Minimart,” and “DAR.”
Authorities say one of the central aims of the initiative is also to strengthen Bulgarian agriculture and food production by encouraging retailers to include more goods from local farmers and processors in the discounted basket.
Officials describe “Care Basket” as a potential model for long-term consumer protection, greater price transparency, and the prevention of unfair pricing practices, while also supporting broader market stability.
