As interchangeable and monotonous as shopping centers have become in terms of offerings, globalization of fashion brands does offer one advantage: If you’re vacationing in Hungary, you can stock up on your summer wardrobe at H&M or Zara for less than you would before your trip in Berlin’s Alexa mall. A look at textile offerings across the EU reveals that it no longer matters whether you shop at the arcades in Strasbourg, the “Nave de Vero” center in Maghera near Venice, or at Alexa in Berlin. With a few exceptions for local vendors, the selection is identical. The only difference lies in the pricing.
Let’s take a closer look at the world, especially the European Union.
Even in other holiday destinations like Croatia, Greece, or Italy, prices for comparable fashion are lower than in Germany.
The table below shows where our sample dress is cheaper or more expensive in the European Union compared to Germany:
Country | Price in Euros |
Italy | 35.04 |
Netherlands | 35.11 |
Portugal | 35.46 |
Greece | 37.03 |
Croatia | 37.77 |
France | 38.99 |
Austria | 41.82 |
Denmark | 42.36 |
However, if you think you’ll score a bargain in Turkey—as long as it’s not counterfeit—you might be mistaken. At 40.71 euros, the purchase price is higher than in Germany.
What Does the Price Gap in Europe Mean for German Consumers?
For those who have long travel distances to neighboring countries, shopping across the border outside of holiday seasons is often not worth it. However, those living in border regions near Poland or the Czech Republic are already familiar with the benefits of cross-border shopping for fuel and tobacco. Clothing purchases there can significantly ease the household budget despite travel costs, as Poland comes in at 35.99 euros and the Czech Republic at 36.30 euros in comparison.
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