Egg shortage in Austria: threatens for a bottleneck before Easter?

Egg shortage in Austria: threatens for a bottleneck before Easter?

In Austria there is currently a noticeable scarcity of eggs. Spar has warned consumers that possible deficiency threatens, especially in the area of organic eggs. The main reason for these bottlenecks are several challenges in agricultural production. Among other things, the spread of bird flu, a high demand from abroad and strict regulations in the organic area influenced the availability of eggs. Spar only relies on local eggs and has long -term relationships with local suppliers.

A recently carried out local inspection in Graz supermarkets shows that there are eggs, but possibly not in all desired varieties. Before Easter there is officially all -clear because there are enough eggs, even if short -term bottlenecks cannot be excluded. The organic eggs that are under pressure are particularly affected by the current circumstances.

background of the scarcity

The shortage of supply on the egg market is not new and can be traced back to the bird flu spread in autumn 2024. During this period, according to the poultry industry association, 200,000 out of 7.3 million laying hens across Austria, which seriously impaired production. Michael Wurzer from the association said that the situation in other EU countries has an additional influence on the offer in Austria.

Overall, the local laying hen companies are currently working in full operation and usually deliver about 90 percent of the market needs of Austro-fresh eggs. After all, it is expected that consumers will be able to obtain sufficient domestic eggs in the coming months. However, certain varieties could be temporarily sold out.
A notice in a savings branch in Vöcklabruck has already provided information about restrictions in availability, while other dealers who supply the catering trade have difficulty obtaining foreign eggs.

Current supply forecasts

The high demand from domestic gastronomy, especially through winter tourism, increases the pressure on the already tense supply chains. Spar reports on selective bottlenecks in organic and outdoor eggs, but sees enough eggs for the upcoming season. The Rewe Group (Billa, Penny) and Lidl have also confirmed bottlenecks, but are actively working on solutions. In a long-term perspective, Hofer remains optimistic and plans with an increased availability of organic eggs.

Overall, it can be seen that the high posture standards in Austria, since the exit from cage in 2009, have been retained despite the current challenges. Consumers have to accept temporary bottlenecks, but may hope for adequate care with domestic eggs.