A nationwide potato shortage might affect pub operators across Australia quite severely, with some larger pub groups anticipating increased costs of around $500,000. Australia’s supply of potatoes has been decimated due to floods, fires and severe weather along with international shortages, supply chain and transport issues as the cause of the problem. For pubs, that means increased costs.
AHA National President David Canny: “Almost every pub classic involves a side of potato – be it steak and chips, bangers and mash, burger and chips, parma and chips, potato cakes, fish and chips. The list goes on. The increase in the price of potatoes puts more financial pressure on pubs already facing increased costs including power, beer excise, drinks over the bar, transport and staff. Already, in the lead up to Christmas venues are being warned to start using other vegies with meals instead of the traditional chip, or, of course, there’s always the healthy salad option for pub-goers.”
The result is a 30 per cent to 40 per cent increase in the cost to suppliers. With an almost non-existent margin on potato products, it is difficult for suppliers not to pass the expense on to hoteliers. Some larger pub operators have said the price increase could cost them up to around half a million dollars in 2024.
Source: theshout.com.au