German wholesale prices see steepest climb in two years
Wholesale prices in Germany rose by 0.9 per cent in January compared to December. According to data published by the Federal Statistical Office, this increase is also 0.9 per cent when compared to the same month last year. This January's rise marks the highest for almost two years.
The rise in wholesale prices in Germany in January 2025 was 0.9 per cent compared to December 2024. This is the largest jump since April 2023.
Wholesalers, serving as a key link between producers and consumers, typically pass on price changes with a delay. Inflation in Germany was 2.3 per cent in January, which is slightly lower than the 2.6 per cent recorded in December.
Food price increase in Germany. Highest in two years
At the beginning of the year, the prices of coffee, tea, cocoa and spices saw a significant increase, becoming 34.4 per cent more expensive compared to January 2024. Sugar, confectionery and bakery products became 11 per cent more costly.
For milk, dairy products, eggs, as well as edible oils and fats, prices rose by 7 per cent. Conversely, the prices of iron, steel and semi-finished products fell by 6.3 per cent, and peripheral devices decreased by 6.2 per cent.
The German Association of Wholesale, Foreign Trade and Services (BGA) predicts stagnation in turnover in 2025, taking inflation into account. Two-thirds of wholesalers reported a decrease in sales over the last six months.
An additional 40 per cent of wholesale sellers expect a further decline this year. "I have never seen worse data," said Dirk Jandura, president of the BGA, regarding a survey conducted among member companies of the association.
