Have you ever wondered if you are getting a good deal buying food on campus?
Marine biology and zoology major Tiffany Plencer said she focuses on what is more cost efficient. Working at the Depot, she hears complaints on prices constantly.
“People say the drinks are more expensive here than off campus,” Plencer said. “There are complaints about the burritos because it costs 60 cents per topping.”
Safeway and CVS are popular grocery spots for students in Arcata since both offer free membership discount cards. The stores mark products with red and yellow tags to draw attention to the discounts so people think they are getting the best deal.
However, some items, like soda, bottled water, candy, fruit and gum, cost less on campus.
But, prices at different locations on campus are inconsistent. Stop by the South Campus Market Place for an 80-cent apple, or get one at the Depot for 50 cents.
Dining Services Director Ron Rudebock said there are two main reasons for this logistical problem. The first reason is that merchandise is constantly in circulation and changes all the time. This is why the South Campus Market Place, Hilltop Market and Giant’s Cupboard rarely have prices listed on products. Having to take down and put up price tags constantly is a hassle for the workers and a waste of paper.
In order to alleviate this problem, Rudebock said the department plans to set-up aisle scanners at these locations over the summer. The scanners will allow people to check prices themselves rather than having to ask the cashier.
Rudebock said the other reason is because vendors come to the different locations at different times.
“Managers make the decisions when it comes to pricing,” said Rudebock. “Eddie [Aguilar] manages the Depot, while Mary [McDowell] manages the convenience stores. This makes it difficult to standardize prices throughout campus.”
Library supervisor Lesa Coleman said she does not care about prices or convenience. She cares about the quality of the food.
At harvest time, HSU gets at least half of its produce from local farms.
Still, Coleman prefers to shop at the Co-Op and brings her own lunch to work. On the rare occasion when she forgets to pack a meal, Coleman said she gets a salad or a snack bar from the Library Café.
“I’m just fussy about my food,” she said. “I don’t like to buy junk.”
Be the first to comment on this article!