Premium Potatoes soar high, almost hitting 7 euros in outdoor spas
In the heart of summer, a beloved tradition for many - enjoying a sunny day at the public pool with a side of crispy fries and a dollop of mayo - is becoming an unattainable dream for some families due to soaring prices.
Across major cities, the cost of a large serving of fries at public pools has been on the rise. In Cologne, visitors pay up to 6.50 euros, a figure that is strikingly similar in Berlin where a serving costs seven euros. For many, this expense is a significant financial burden, making it hard to afford the simple pleasure of fries by the poolside.
The affordability of fries at public pools for next year remains uncertain, but the trend suggests that prices will continue to rise. The high costs are largely due to the increasing expense of overall pool access and food services. Many public pools, especially upscale or specialized locations, charge high day passes, restricting access and driving up the overall cost of visiting and purchasing poolside food.
The image of enjoying fries and mayo during a summer holiday may be unattainable for many. Operators charge a hefty price for fast food in public pools, and if a sauce is chosen, an additional cost is often incurred. As a result, many families will have to resort to packed lunches or supermarket snacks due to the high prices in public pools.
The rising costs are not just limited to fries. Prices for other snacks like ice cream have also risen, making the treats unaffordable for some. High energy, personnel, and raw material costs are causing struggles for public pool operators, which they are passing on to guests.
Users on social media express frustration over the rising prices, describing them as "ripoff". The trend reflects a broader shift towards pools being part of luxurious resorts or restaurants rather than simple public amenities, driving up both entry and food prices. The food and beverage options at such locations may also be upgraded or curated for a more "adult" or premium clientele, raising menu prices accordingly, including basic items like fries.
As the summer season approaches, families are left grappling with the reality of these soaring prices, hoping for a day when the simple joy of fries by the poolside will once again be within reach.
[1] Data source: Various regional pool operators and user surveys.
- Due to the increase in prices for food-and-drink items like fries at public pools, many families are finding it difficult to maintain their lifestyle of relaxation by the poolside during summer.
- In some cities, the price of a large serving of fries at public pools can exceed 7 euros, which is a substantial expense for a family's food budget and has led to a rise in the popularity of packed lunches or supermarket snacks.
