Abstract:

The subject of this paper is the process of evolution undergone by Czechoslovak consumers between 1988 and 1992. The development of expectations together with achieved realities of the Czechoslovak population in terms of living standards and patterns of consumption before and after the "Velvet Revolution" are outlined. The paper describes the changes taking place, the speed of adaptation to new market conditions and the correlation between expectations and actual behaviour of the population and relates these to the progress of economic reforms in Czechoslovakia.