The short version

Mark Ritson predicted on January 1, 2025: “'maximiniflation' refers to something he predicts will cause much more consumer anger in 2026.” Verdict: Called it. Throughout 2024–2026, 'Shrinkflation' (smaller packs at higher effective prices) has been widely reported in media, generating significant consumer and regulatory anger. The practice Ritson defines as 'maximiniflation' is consistent with this. As of mid-2026, there has…

Prediction by

Mark Ritson

On January 1, 2025

“'maximiniflation' refers to something he predicts will cause much more consumer anger in 2026.”

Follow-up

Throughout 2024–2026, 'Shrinkflation' (smaller packs at higher effective prices) has been widely reported in media, generating significant consumer and regulatory anger. The practice Ritson defines as 'maximiniflation' is consistent with this. As of mid-2026, there has been sustained, visible consumer anger, with public discourse increasingly focusing on 'stealth price rises.' The direction and timing of the prediction have been broadly borne out. The exact publication date of the article is not given, but since it is a prediction for 2026, a 2025 publication date is assumed.

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