Food is mainly sold in supermarkets, discount stores, bakeries, butchers, and markets. In small towns, the selection is often more limited than in larger cities. Drugstores sell personal-care products, household goods, and some health products. For certain medicines, however, a pharmacy is the appropriate place to go. Prices are shown on the shelf or on the product. The unit price by weight or quantity makes it easier to compare differently sized packages. Payment is made with cash or, often, by card. At small businesses, market stalls, and remote sales points, having an alternative payment method is useful. Opening hours are generally more limited than in countries with shops that stay open continuously. Many stores are closed on Sundays and public holidays, although individual locations may have special exceptions. Some beverage containers are subject to deposit or return systems. Packaging and other waste are also collected separately according to local rules. Regional terms can be unfamiliar when shopping. Tomatoes (Paradeiser), potatoes (Erdäpfel), and a small round bread roll (Semmel) are examples. Complaints are easier to resolve when an invoice or receipt is available. Returning an item simply because you do not like it is not automatically governed in the same way for every purchase.
Shopping in Austria
Shopping in Austria is organized through supermarkets, smaller shops, markets, and specialty stores. Prices, selection, and opening hours vary by location and type of business. Comparing offers and planning purchases can save money and travel.
Tip
Plan staple foods before shopping and compare the price per quantity. Check opening hours especially before Sundays and public holidays. Keep receipts for expensive, non-perishable, or potentially defective goods.