© Monica Camposeo
A class from Lycée Robert Schuman has produced a report for Media Day exploring the impact of coffee inflation on the spending habits of Luxembourg's students.
For Media Day 2025, a fifth-year media class from Lycée Robert Schuman investigated whether rising coffee prices are affecting student consumption.
Following a global trend, inflation in Luxembourg has driven up the cost of energy, transport, and goods since 2021, with coffee being no exception. Compounding the issue, a shortage of coffee beans due to adverse weather has further pressured prices.
According to the National Institute of Statistics and Economic Studies (STATEC), the price of coffee in Luxembourg rose by 10% in May 2025 compared to the previous year.
Clementine, a barista at a café in Limpertsberg, explained that a latte macchiato now costs €5.60, citing expenses like sustainably sourced beans, the added cost of oat milk for vegan options, and general overheads like rent.
This price increase can have a tangible effect on young consumers. A 2024 RTL survey found that two-thirds of teenagers receive pocket money, with 40% of them receiving up to €60.
Student opinions on the matter varied: one female student reported consciously drinking less coffee out and preferring to make it at home, while a young man said the prices had not changed his habits.
The effects are also being felt behind the counter. Baristas Angie and Clementine, who work in different Limpertsberg cafés, offered contrasting observations. Angie noted she has seen fewer young people visiting over the past four years. Clementine, however, believes students still frequent cafés to study, suggesting that "as long as you have to study, coffee will always be needed."
This report was produced by the students with the guidance of RTL journalist Monica Camposeo.
