January 4th 2025.
For many people, coffee is an essential part of their morning routine. But lately, getting that daily caffeine fix has become a costly affair. Industry experts are warning that the price of coffee beans is on the rise, putting a strain on cafes all across the country. According to Wes Lambert, the CEO of the Australian Restaurant and Cafe Association, this is a widespread problem that is affecting every coffee shop in Australia.
Lambert explains that the increase in bean prices, which can go up by as much as 50%, is putting a lot of pressure on cafes and restaurants. This is because the supply chain for these businesses, including coffee beans, is often influenced by unpredictable weather conditions. As a result, the cost of a single cup of coffee is expected to reach $8 to $12 by the end of the year.
Local cafes have no choice but to raise their prices in order to keep their businesses afloat. Fadi Sahan, the owner of Little Gossip Cafe, states that they are not trying to be greedy by increasing their prices. They simply need to do it in order to cover their costs and stay open. However, it's not just the price of beans and milk that is contributing to the rising cost of a quality cup of coffee. Hidden expenses like packaging, wages, rent, and add-ons are also playing a role.
If you're someone who can't give up your daily dose of caffeine, there are still some affordable options available. Popular service stations like 7/11, Coles Express, and Ampol are offering large cups of coffee for $3 or $3.50. But as Lambert points out, when you're buying from a cafe, you're not just paying for a drink. You're also paying for the experience and the quality that comes with it.
Unfortunately, coffee is not the only simple pleasure that will become more expensive this year. The price of alcohol is also expected to go up with the six-monthly increase in alcohol excise next month. According to Kylie Lethbridge, the CEO of the Independent Brewers Association, this tax hike could have a devastating impact on independent breweries who are already struggling to survive. She explains that the tax increase could push many of these businesses over the brink.
For consumers, this means that the price of a pint at the pub could go up to around $15. The Coalition has stated that they are open to considering cuts to ease the burden on businesses and consumers. However, Regional Development Minister Kristy McBain points out that the government relies on the revenue from alcohol tax, so any changes would need to be carefully considered.
In the end, the rising cost of coffee and alcohol is just one part of the larger issue of the increasing cost of living. As politicians review and make changes to taxes and other expenses, it remains to be seen how everyday Australians will be affected. In the meantime, you can stay informed on all the latest news, including updates on these issues, by downloading the 9News app. Available on both the Apple App Store and Google Play, it will keep you up to date and send notifications straight to your smartphone.
[This article has been trending online recently and has been generated with AI. Your feed is customized.]
[Generative AI is experimental.]
