Costa Coffee has raised prices by 5p on drinks sold at its Express counters, affecting approximately 12,000 locations across the UK. The chain, which competes with Starbucks, Pret, and Caffe Nero, said the increase reflects tough times for retailers.
A standard latte or cappuccino now costs £3.05, with large sizes at £3.35. Adding vanilla or caramel syrup brings the price to £3.50. Regular Americanos are £2.80, and large ones £3. Specialty drinks like the Cinnamon Bun Latte are priced at £3.70 for regular and £3.95 for large.
Customers have expressed frustration online. One Twitter user wrote: "That's @CostaCoffee put the prices of the Costa Express coffees up YET AGAIN!" Another said: "We used to love treating the kids to the odd coffee or hot chocolate from the Express machines but at between £3 and £4 a pop we are being priced out."
Consumer expert Martyn James commented: "Every little counts during the cost of living crisis - and if spiralling coffee costs aren't enough to make you brew up at home, the news that the DIY options are going up too might be the final straw." Sarah Coles of Hargreaves Lansdown added that while raw ingredient costs have not risen significantly, other factors contribute to the price.
Costa Coffee stated: "We understand that any change in pricing can be challenging for our customers and strive to provide the best experience and quality products for our customers on-the-go, whilst rewarding our Costa Club members with amazing discounts and exclusive offers."
