Burger Stand Defies Inflation with Price-Magic

A coastal burger stand in Blackpool, England, has successfully kept its burger priced at just over $1 for nearly two decades, despite rising food and energy costs. Higgitt’s Las Vegas Arcade Blackpool & £1 Burger Bar, owned by Chris Higgitt, offers a burger including a bun, English beef patty, onions, and sauce for only £1, roughly $1.34, since its opening in 2006.

Chris Higgitt, a 58-year-old entrepreneur, has maintained this low price, creating a significant draw for tourists during peak seasons. Lines of eager customers wait up to an hour to enjoy the affordable meal. The business was initially inspired by Higgitt’s brainstorming with his wife, Karen, about how to improve the arcade and their earnings.

The couple, previously involved in engineering and hospitality, found the arcade wasn’t thriving and pivoted towards selling burgers. The idea came from a simple discussion, leading Higgitt to calculate the feasibility, ultimately resulting in a lucrative venture that now comprises 90% of their income.

Efficient operations, bulk purchasing, and savvy social media efforts contribute to the burger’s affordability. Higgitt estimates the cost of each burger, including ingredients and electricity, at 50 pence per burger, approximately 68 cents.

Social media plays a vital role in driving visitors. Content creators from platforms like TikTok and YouTube frequently share their experiences trying Britain’s cheapest burger, continuously attracting curious new patrons.

Beyond burgers, visitors can enjoy an array of affordable menu items like hot dogs and various sandwiches. The success of this seaside business showcases ingenuity in maintaining low prices and high interests over the years.