A difficult but necessary step taken at the Staff and Postgraduate Restaurant
An implementation of increased meal prices at the Staff and Postgraduate Restaurant is a necessary step as rising costs of food, utilities, and National Insurance contributions increase financial pressures.
The changes will take effect from Monday 10th February 2025. The University is no exception to these price rises, and these increases are due to several factors.
Understanding the Price Rise
The decision to raise prices was not made lightly. The price adjustments were necessary to maintain food quality and service while covering increasing costs.
Like everyone else, University of Leicester Food and Drink want to continue providing fresh, nutritious meals, but also must balance the budget to keep the restaurant running.
The impact of extreme weather events has contributed to food price increases, the overexploitation of agricultural land has degraded the soil reducing its capacity to produce food sustainably, the supply chain disruption due to political crises has affected the production of goods. These are just some of the factors that have caused a chain effect.
To break it down even further to the daily products you may be purchasing, the price of Arabica coffee beans alone has increased by more than 78%, reaching a 47-year high.
Major coffee-producing countries like Brazil and Colombia have faced extreme weather that have reduced crop yields. This has led to higher wholesale prices for coffee beans, directly impacting on our cafés and our restaurant.
The cost of transporting and roasting coffee has risen due to increased fuel prices, higher energy bills, and supply chain bottlenecks. Importing coffee beans, particularly for the UK, has become more expensive due to higher shipping costs and global economic instability.
Impact on the University Community
For many, it is evident the Staff and Postgraduate Restaurant is more than just a place to eat— it’s a space to unwind, socialise, and take a break from work and studies.
While the price increases are an unfortunate reality, University of Leicester Food and Drink always strive to provide a range of accessible price points for customers to enjoy fulfilling meals, and the university remains committed to making campus dining as accessible as possible.
What is Being Done to Help?
The support and understanding of our community are truly appreciated, and University of Leicester Food and Drink are continually assisting to help soften the impact of these unavoidable changes while keeping services sustainable.
> There are budget-friendly menu choices, such as freshly made hot soup and jacket potatoes and the healthy option ‘Grain Train’ in the Staff and Postgraduate restaurant.
> You have full access to our loyalty scheme, UPAY Rewards – earn 5% back in reward points on £1+ purchases. Build up reward points and redeem on a hot, hearty meal.
It is understandable that any changes affecting daily routines, such as dining options and price adjustments can be concerning, the Staff and Postgraduate Restaurant is committed to providing a range of hot, nutritious and sustainable food and drink, for all our customers that access it.
