Waves Coffee lowering prices despite rising costs

Waves Coffee House, the Vancouver-based chain, is cutting select menu prices and removing charges for add-ons like butter and whipped cream after renegotiating key supplier agreements.

"We understand that consumers are feeling stretched," said Kayvan Rahmati, president of Waves. "Everything from groceries to rent to eating out has become more expensive. Our goal is to continue operating sustainably while also making sure Waves remains a neighbourhood coffee house where people can visit often, feel welcome, and still find value."

Drip coffee will be priced under $3, and prices will drop on select chocolate-based beverages. The chain is also removing surcharges for butter and whipped cream, and plans to eliminate charges for oat and almond milk by year's end.

Waves is adding new handheld food items including samosas and calzones, priced under $5, and adjusting prices on breakfast and snack items like English muffins and egg bites.

Rahmati said the moves were possible after renegotiating agreements with several key suppliers covering coffee, chocolate, and distribution. "We are not immune to rising costs, but we also do not want to simply pass every increase on to the guest," he said. "When we are able to find savings in our supply chain, we believe it is important to share that value with our customers."

Founded in Vancouver in 2005, Waves now operates 27 locations across B.C. and Alberta.