BRACE FOR A PRICE HIKE
Restaurateurs said it might be difficult to absorb the added charge as digital payments made up 70-80% of transactions, even as govt advised merchants not to pass on the levy to customers. A 0.4% MDR adds Rs 8 to a Rs 2,000 bill. With average bills ranging between Rs 2,000 and Rs 3,000 for two people, we may need to incentivise cash payments to offset the added cost,” a Camp-based restaurant operator said. “We may offer small freebies on bills above Rs 2,000 paid in cash. “A pasta at a decent eatery can cost around Rs 600.
We are assessing the impact and possible options,” a Kothrud restaurateur said. “We may have to revise menu rates from next month,” a restaurant owner from Hinjewadi said. The industry is already under pressure, so we need to manage the additional expense carefully,” a Koregaon Park-based restaurant owner said. Wanowrie resident Rishi Savla said MDR was unlikely to significantly affect diners, arguing that restaurant pricing was already high. A small MDR charge will not make much of a difference,” he said.
“Restaurant operating costs have surged in recent months. LPG cylinders, raw material and compliance expenses are all higher. Some owners indicated that menu prices could see a marginal increase. Others are exploring ways to encourage cash payments. “Most customers pay via UPI now, even for small purchases. Restaurants in areas like Koregaon Park are considering festive-season promotions linked to cash payments. Customers, however, are divided on the issue. You Can Also Check: Gold Rate in Pune | Silver Rate in Pune | Bank Holidays in Pune | Public Holidays in Pune | Petrol Price in Pune | Diesel Price in Pune | CNG Price in Pune | LPG Price in Pune