Waffle House eliminates egg surcharge as prices stabilize

In June 2023, Waffle House, the beloved American diner chain, announced the discontinuation of a surcharge on eggs that had been implemented earlier that year due to a severe shortage sparked by an outbreak of avian flu. The surcharge, set at 50 cents per egg, was introduced in February to address skyrocketing prices that had surged to record levels, impacting both consumers and restaurants. These heightened prices were a result of tens of millions of egg-laying chickens being culled to control the spread of the bird flu, dramatically reducing supply and pushing the costs of eggs up to extraordinary heights, reaching a peak of $6.23 per dozen in March. As egg prices began to normalize in the following months, the surcharge was removed, indicating a hopeful sign for consumers and restaurateurs alike. In fact, by early June, wholesale prices had dropped to about $2.56 per dozen, reflecting a significant decline and offering relief to families grappling with food prices. The decision to remove the surcharge was not only a welcome development for the chain’s customers, who enjoy a robust breakfast menu featuring eggs, but also articulated by Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins as part of a broader effort by the USDA to stabilize food prices amidst ongoing inflationary pressures. Waffle House, known for its significant egg consumption—about 272 million eggs per year across its extensive network of over 2,000 restaurants—played a role in the overall market dynamics influenced by the avian flu crisis. The history of the surcharge, which was a targeted response to specific market conditions rather than a general price increase, underscored the chain's efforts to maintain affordability for its patrons while supporting its supply chain resilience. As the situation evolved, Waffle House continually monitored egg prices with the intention of adjusting their charges accordingly, ultimately announcing through social media that the surcharge was off the menu as of June 2, 2023. By eliminating the surcharge, Waffle House not only catered to the demand of its customers but also highlighted the fluctuations in food prices that have been a reality for many dining establishments across the nation.