New York City airports consider increasing concession prices and introducing surcharge to cover worker benefits and higher wages.
Travelers passing through the airports serving New York City may soon notice a significant increase in the prices of food and drinks. The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, which oversees operations at LaGuardia, Kennedy International, and Newark Liberty International airports, is considering rule changes that would allow airport vendors to raise their prices and add a 3 percent surcharge. This move is intended to help businesses cover the rising costs of labor.
If the proposed changes go into effect in January, travelers could see a 7.5 percent increase in prices at airport restaurants and shops. For example, a cheeseburger and fries at Bobby Van’s steakhouse in Kennedy Airport, currently priced at $29.50, could cost an additional $3.49 after the increase, bringing the total to about $50. Similarly, a glass of chardonnay priced at $17 could see a price hike.
At LaGuardia Airport, prices are already steep, with a bar charging $16 for items like chicken Caesar wraps and turkey-and-Swiss panini. In another instance, a shop sold a 12-ounce bag of almonds for $15.99. The Port Authority justifies these increases by stating that they will help vendors cover the costs of higher wages and improved benefits for their employees.
The Port Authority has also proposed gradual increases in the minimum wage for workers at airport terminals. These changes are part of an effort to ensure that airport employees are fairly compensated for their work. Travelers should be prepared for these price hikes when purchasing food and drinks at New York City airports in the near future.
Source: The NY Times
