Zarija Pavićević from Alternativa Crna Gora has announced that commercial margins in the country are significantly higher than the figures presented by major supermarket chains. He stated that a comprehensive report on the margins will be released soon.
In an interview on RTCG’s morning program, Pavićević revealed that his organization would soon provide detailed documentation regarding the high margins. He expressed confidence that, starting Monday, citizens will boycott the supermarket chain Voli unless the company reduces prices.
He pointed out that the previous two boycotts resulted in a drop in sales by over 50% for the first time, followed by a 30% drop on February 8th.
“The goal was to demonstrate that the people of Montenegro can unite. A 30% drop is truly remarkable, and I’m pleased with that result; it was a successful day,” Pavićević said.
He emphasized that the objective is not to lower profits but to make citizens’ voices heard.
“If I had my way, Aroma and Idea would have been at the top of the boycott list, with Voli being the last one. However, after a survey involving about 7,000 people, we reached a two-thirds majority to boycott Voli,” Pavićević explained.
Pavićević believes that this issue has united citizens across the country, setting aside political divisions. He also highlighted concerns about prices in the banking and pharmaceutical sectors.
He expressed hope that Voli would reduce prices within the given timeframe (by tomorrow) and that the boycott could be avoided.
“The key is for citizens to unite. The survey was public and accessible to everyone. Those who believe this is politically motivated could have participated themselves, but I cannot go against the will of the people. I hope the boycott won’t happen,” Pavićević said.
Pavićević also mentioned that they have extensive documentation proving that commercial margins are much higher than what is currently being disclosed. He hinted that they might release concrete evidence today showing that margins are not just 3-5%, but could range between 30, 40, or even 50%.
He urged the government to take responsibility and contribute to resolving the issue, as it also affects the government’s sector.
“This is a closed loop, and we need to sit down and reach an agreement,” Pavićević said.
Commenting on Voli’s statement about reducing the purchase of local products, he viewed it as a form of pressure. He added that local products should be prioritized.
“I believe every citizen now realizes that the power is in their hands,” Pavićević concluded.
He stated that the boycott of one supermarket chain would lead to price reductions in other chains as well.
“After this, the plan is to boycott two supermarket chains, and that will change things,” he concluded.
