12th March 2026
There is evidence that continued, high food inflation is driving consumers to change their shopping habits, with some, particularly in Europe, mentally preparing for or beginning to stockpile to mitigate future price increases. Various reports show the trends.
Based on reports from late 2025 and early 2026, here is the evidence:]/b]
Consumer Sentiment and Preparation
A February 2026 ING Research Consumer Survey found that most respondents expect grocery prices to rise more rapidly in 2026 than the year before, signaling that many consumers are mentally preparing or actively preparing for higher inflation. This fear is most acute in Romania (73%), Belgium (66%), and the Netherlands (64%), where many respondents expect continued rapid price increases.
"Stockpiling" to Save Money
Research suggests consumers are switching to defensive, "stockpiling" strategies, such as buying in bulk, switching to cheaper stores, and seeking out deals, as they anticipate further price hikes.
Rising Food Costs in 2026
Despite previous dips, food inflation remains a significant factor. In the UK, grocery price inflation rose to 4.3% in the four weeks to February 22, 2026, with warnings of further, "eye-watering" rises in early 2026. In the US, food inflation is expected to remain high in 2026, with some items like coffee and beef seeing significant price increases.
Increased Use of Food Banks: In some regions, the high cost of living has led to an "alarming" increase in the use of food banks.
Persistent Inflationary Pressure
Analysts warn that while food inflation may be easing slightly from its peak, it will remain "sticky" in 2026 due to factors like increased government regulation, higher, and potential geopolitical risks, making it likely that consumers will continue to feel the pressure to hoard goods.
[b]Why Stockpiling is Happening
Consumers are trying to get ahead of "cheapflation" where lower quality, cheaper brands rise in price faster than premium ones by buying staples in larger quantities before the next, anticipated price hike.
Recent Evidence of Stockpiling (March 2026)
Fuel & Energy: Significant panic buying of petrol has been reported in Australia (sales up 238% in some regions) and the UK (London) due to fears of escalation in the Middle East. In India, residents are stockpiling LPG cylinders amid fears of price hikes and shortages.
Food Staples
Reports from the Gulf region indicate panic buying as residents fear supply chain collapses due to regional conflict.
Consumer Sentiment
A February 2026 survey found that most respondents in countries like Romania (73%), Belgium (66%), and the Netherlands (64%) expect grocery prices to rise more rapidly, leading many to "mentally prepare" or proactively buy.