School supplies — Parents Encouraged to Shop Smart for School Supplies as Prices Fluctuate

Parents preparing their children for the new school year are being urged to plan ahead, shop smart, and compare prices, as a recent survey by the Cyprus Consumers Association uncovered significant variations in school supply costs across the island.

The survey, which included both online and in-store assessments at ten different retail outlets, revealed that school bags can range dramatically in price, starting from as low as €4.99 and soaring up to €209.95. This stark difference is attributed to factors such as size, design, and brand.

School supplies: Wide Range of Prices for Essential Items

Other essential school supplies also displayed a broad spectrum of prices. Pencil cases were found to cost anywhere from €0.71 to €44.95, while notebooks varied between €0.32 and €12.99. Even basic items like pencils, pens, and markers showed a price range from €0.19 to €14.99.

Comparative Price Changes from Last Year

When compared to the previous year, the survey noted that prices for some items have decreased. Pencil cases and notebooks saw reductions of 10% and 18% respectively. In contrast, entry-level school bags, markers, pens, and folders experienced notable increases, with price hikes of 25%, 46%, and 27% respectively. Interestingly, while the cost of premium notebooks rose by 30%, some higher-end pencil cases and folders saw a slight decline in price.

The Importance of Price Comparison

The Cyprus Consumers Association highlighted that some retailers offer lower prices online than in their physical stores, which underscores the necessity of price comparison. Parents are encouraged to take advantage of this by exploring both online and in-store options before making purchases.

Involving Children in the Shopping Process

In a bid to help families navigate the back-to-school shopping experience, the association advised parents to involve their children in preparing shopping lists. This practice can help distinguish between essential items and unnecessary purchases. Furthermore, parents are encouraged to prioritise quality and safety when selecting school supplies, such as avoiding products that resemble food or have food scents.

“The back-to-school period is an opportunity to teach our children how to navigate the market and avoid unnecessary consumption,” the association stated, reminding consumers to check each retailer’s return policy before finalising their purchases.