French retail chain Coopérative U's CEO, Dominique Schelcher, has warned that retail prices are expected to rise starting in March 2027, according to several reports. This anticipated increase follows the annual commercial negotiations between retailers and manufacturers, which typically take place between December 1st and March 1st. These talks determine the pricing agreements between supermarket chains and their suppliers. Schelcher noted that after a period of reduced consumer spending—often referred to as a "recession"—during the summer of 2026, suppliers are now once again requesting price adjustments, which are expected to have a significant impact by March 1st, particularly on certain products. Several factors are contributing to the anticipated price hikes. The ongoing war in the Middle East has disrupted global supply chains, leading to increased costs for fuel, gas, and fertilizers. These are essential inputs for both manufacturing and agriculture. Products that contain plastic, a byproduct of petroleum, and those requiring extensive transportation are likely to be hit the hardest. Additionally, climate-related challenges, such as droughts and heatwaves, have affected agricultural production. This has led to higher costs for milk, dairy products, meat, and processed foods made from fruits and vegetables. Coopérative U has already begun paying more for fresh produce, with price increases in the "two-digit" range and growing rapidly, according to Schelcher. The challenges extend beyond pricing. Coopérative U is also facing difficulties in securing sufficient product quantities. For example, the availability of potatoes and other autumn vegetables has decreased, with smaller harvests arriving at stores. In some regions, the company is struggling to maintain adequate stock, with Schelcher describing the situation in the vegetable growing sector as the most severe he has ever encountered. Additionally, there are disruptions in the production of canned vegetables, further complicating the supply chain. Michel-Edouard Leclerc, president of the strategic committee of E. Leclerc centers, also expects suppliers to request higher prices following the upcoming negotiations. When questioned on BFM TV/RMC, he confirmed that retailers would likely be paying more for goods, though he did not rule out the possibility of passing on these costs to consumers. The combination of rising input costs, climate challenges, and supply chain disruptions is shaping a complex landscape for retailers as they prepare for a new wave of price adjustments in early 2027.