Essentials has increased the price of their Meal Deal from £2.29 to £2.39, a 4.4 per cent rise since last semester.

A Union spokesperson told LS that the price increases were due to “rising costs from suppliers.”

Although the popular student lunch deal has increased in price over the last three years, it remains cheaper than other nearby lunchtime deals.

Similar deals including a sandwich, drink and snack at the Refectory, Mangal, and the Tesco Express on Blenheim
Terrace cost £3.

Speaking to LS, a First year Languages student said: “The Meal Deal is a good price, but I always try and bring my own lunch to uni”. A Biochemistry student described Essentials as “overpriced”, adding: “I only pop in there occasionally because it’s convenient”.

Many of the bakery items have also seen a price increase in Essentials. A Second year English student said: “I’m outraged at the price increases in the bakery section. You can’t get anything for less than
90p anymore!”­

In comparison with other supermarkets, many items in Essentials are more expensive. A 400g loaf of Warburton’s bread costs £1.35 in Essentials, compared to 80p in Tesco Express and 79p in Morrisons.

Union Affairs Officer, Bradley Escorcio said: “Money raised through Essentials helps to fund our core student services. We will always give
students the best value products that we’re able to”.

Charlotte Mason

Photo: Sam Broadley