Higher consumer prices are affecting consumption. In a survey for RTL/ntv, half of Germans say they spend less money. Low-income households in particular are concerned that things could get worse.
Inflation in many parts of the world is at its highest in decades, and Germany is no exception. In a year-on-year comparison, the cost of living has recently increased by almost eight percent. This has consequences for the purchasing behavior of German citizens. In a survey for RTL/ntv, more than half - 52 percent - said they had adjusted their consumer behavior because of the price increases. As a result, they spend less money or postpone certain purchases. 48 percent said inflation had no effect on their purchasing behavior.
The loss of purchasing power affects a broad mass of German citizens. Households with low (below 2500 euros) and medium (2500 euros to 4000 euros) net income are particularly affected. But even among recipients of incomes over 4000 euros net per month, 39 percent say they spend less money. The higher consumer prices have consequences, especially for AfD supporters: 69 percent of them have adjusted their consumer behavior.
In addition, some Germans are concerned that the situation could worsen due to high energy prices. 38 percent stated that they feared that their household would get into financial difficulties as a result. 61 percent do not. This is also the main concern of low-income earners (51 percent) and half of AfD supporters (50 percent).
The data was collected by the market and opinion research institute Forsa on behalf of RTL Germany from June 24th to 27th, 2022. Database: 1005 respondents. Statistical error tolerance: /- 3 percentage points.
More information about ForsaForsa surveys commissioned by RTL Germany
