GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. (KJCT) – The cost of eggs has skyrocketed, leaving local restaurants scrambling to adjust their budgets. At Randy’s Southside Diner, a staple with three locations in the valley, the impact is undeniable.

A Surge in Costs Catches Restaurants Off Guard

Randy Emmons, owner of Randy’s Southside Diner, says egg prices have doubled in recent months. The increase is stretching the restaurant’s bottom line, forcing difficult decisions about pricing.

“We used to be able to get eggs for $65 to $70 a case for 15 dozen, and now they’re up towards $136,” Emmons said. “It’s definitely been a 100% increase, which was not anything we were prepared to do.”

For a diner that goes through thousands of eggs each week, that kind of price hike adds up fast.

Balancing Profitability Without Alienating Customers

Running a lean operation means that extra costs often have to be passed on to customers. But Emmons is trying to find ways to keep prices as reasonable as possible while staying afloat.

• The diner has already absorbed some of the increase, but further price hikes may be inevitable.
• With profit margins already thin, an $80,000 annual increase in egg costs is not something the restaurant can sustain without adjustments.
• Customers, while understanding, are hoping the price increases won’t be drastic.

Customers Weigh In on Potential Price Hikes

Despite the rising costs, loyal patrons don’t seem deterred. Bob Power, a regular customer, expressed his continued support for the diner.

“I’ll probably still come here since it is limited in the area. I eat out all the time, so I will probably end up eating here.”

Another customer, Peter Hansen, emphasized the difference in experience compared to corporate chains.

“To get the kind of service one gets here is so different than if you go to a Denny’s, McDonald’s, or the real corporate breakfast places.”

Industry Outlook: No Relief in Sight

Egg prices have been fluctuating due to the persistent concerns over bird flu and its effects on egg producers. Emmons says that while prices have surged, supply hasn’t been an issue.

“We haven’t seen a change in the volume of eggs available, but we also haven’t seen any relief in prices. I don’t expect to see them come down until at least spring of next year.”

With no clear end to the price hikes, local diners like Randy’s will have to continue navigating these financial pressures while keeping their loyal customer base satisfied.