When Opportunity Knocks, the Thief Strikes – Ramadan Edition
As the saying goes, “Opportunity makes the thief.” And there’s no better time than the month of Ramadan to sharpen one’s tricks.
- Everyone has their own scheme.
- The key is not to get caught red‑handed.
The “Special” Bread Racket
A bakery (or perhaps the only one) has started producing semolina baguettes and “special” breads first thing in the morning.
- Pricing: The prices are left free‑floating at the start of the day.
- Switch‑back: By late afternoon the bakery returns to selling the traditional baguette – but at 190 mm instead of the usual 200 mm.
This forces impatient customers to buy the “special” loaves before the switch‑over.
Nothing illegal is happening, yet the reverse practice (selling the regular, correctly sized baguette all day) is actually the norm.
Why It Works
Because inspectors can’t be everywhere…
Read also: “Why Good Habits Matter”{:target="_blank" rel="dofollow"}
Keywords: Ramadan, bakery tricks, special bread, price manipulation, consumer behavior, food regulation, French bakery scandal
