50% of Germans fear their lives will worsen over next 10 years

Almost half of Germans polled fear that their situation as consumers will deteriorate in the coming years, according to a survey made available to dpa.

A Forsa survey commissioned by the Federation of German Consumer Organisations (VZBV) shows that 48% of adults expect their situation will worsen over the next decade. The survey was commissioned by the VZBV on the occasion of German Consumer Day on Monday.

A representative sample of 1,003 adults were surveyed between November 6-8.

During Consumer Day, experts will discuss perspectives on consumer issues such as pensions, mobility and artificial intelligence.

According to the survey, when asked which topics require the most political action for consumers, 38% of respondents cited energy supply. About 23% currently see the greatest need as improving pensions.

VZBV board member Ramona Pop said it was worrying that almost half of people are anxious about the future.

"In uncertain times, consumers need clarity and unity rather than conflict," said Pop.