Price increase in the cafeteria: Students in Fulda have to pay more

Price increase in the cafeteria: Students in Fulda have to pay more

The cafeteria of the Fulda University of Applied Sciences will adjust the prices for the gastronomic offer from August 5, 2024. This decision by the Gießen Student Center is not only a reaction to the increased food prices, but also an indicator of the challenges in front of which educational institutions are in the current economic climate.

rising costs as the reason for price increases

The Studierendenwerk Gießen has found that the prices for many foods have increased significantly in the past two years. Examples such as the costs for fresh potatoes, which rose by 51.7 percent in 2024 compared to the previous year, or beef with an increase of 19.2 percent illustrate the financial burden. The price increase of sunflower and rapeseed oils by 65 percent since 2022 has also been alarming. These are just a few of the difficulties that make it difficult for the student work, keep prices stable and maintain the quality of service.

economic effects on students

A central point of criticism of such price adjustments is the burden that they represent for the students. The inflation of living costs is an issue that is discussed throughout society, and it is important to point out that students in particular often have to make do with limited financial resources. Tilman Dabelow, provisional managing director of the student union, emphasizes the efforts to make the price increases as moderate as possible. "We are aware of the financial Situation of the students," said Dabelow.

price adjustments in detail

The concrete adjustment of the prices stipulates that the costs for side dishes and desserts increase by 10 to 40 cents. Even with over half of the pizzas offered, a price surcharge of 10 to 30 cents is due. The prices also change in the area of the evening and some offers, such as the burgers, are only partially raised. Many prices remain stable here.

different price structures and their effects

It is striking that the cheapest prices continue to apply to students. However, university employees and external guests also pay for the subsidized prices of the students. From August 5, the surcharges amount to 2.65 euros for employees and 3.71 euros for external visitors. This differentiation could lead to external visitors to the cafeteria less often, which in turn could influence the atmosphere and community at the university.

A look into the future

The Fulda University of Applied Sciences is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year and has recently recognized its culinary offers with various events. It remains to be seen how the price increases will influence the students and the culture of the university in the long term. In view of the further development of the cost of living, it is crucial that both the university and the students have an open ear for each other in order to navigate together through these challenging times.