A familiar fast food chain known as “Tasty – period” recently announced a 10% price increase on its burger lineup, effective October 1, due to a VAT change affecting this menu category. The company stated this adjustment came after the VAT on hamburgers rose from 10% to 20%, as outlined in a notice from the Federal Tax Service covered by the RIA Novosti press service.
In a communication from the Federal Tax Service, it was explained that starting in October 2023 the value added tax on hamburgers climbed to 20% from the previous 10%. The restaurant chain noted that, in light of the changes to tax law, hamburger varieties were raised by 10% to reflect the difference between the old and new VAT rates. This decision was taken to align pricing with the newly enacted tax framework, and the chain emphasized that the adjustment does not reflect any changes to burger size or ingredient costs as a means to offset the higher tax.
Management stressed that the core focus of the menu remains burgers, and that the overall price position of their offerings has historically been lower than many competitors in the market. The firm stated that its strategy centers on simplicity and value, with most items priced to stay competitive while maintaining quality.
hamburger prices
Following an inspection of item costs across several quick-service brands, the agency requested information from the chain known as “Vkusno – period.” RIA Novosti reported small increases across chicken burgers and hamburgers, ranging from 3 to 7 rubles as of September 21. By October 3, the prices stood at 62 rubles for a chicken burger (up from 59), 65 rubles for a hamburger (up from 59), 78 rubles for a cheeseburger (up from 71), and 114 rubles for the Chicken Hit sandwich (up from 109).
In contrast, Burger King announced price reductions for cheeseburgers and hamburgers. The cheeseburger saw a 5 ruble decrease to 80 rubles, while the hamburger dropped to 75 rubles. Other items remained largely unchanged, according to the agency’s report. Specifically, the cheeseburger moved from 84.99 rubles to 79.99 rubles, and the hamburger from 79.99 rubles to 74.99 rubles.
Prices at KFC did not undergo changes during the period in question, according to the same source.
Bakery products
The Federal Tax Service has mandated that Russian fast food chains apply a 20% value added tax on hamburgers, sandwiches, cheeseburgers, and other similar items starting October 1. The fiscal rule came into effect after the introduction of a new OKPD2 code to designate sandwiches, hamburgers, and related products. This code was approved by the Federal Tax Service and marks a shift from the previous classification.
Previously, manufacturers could classify hamburgers and sandwiches as bakery items with a short shelf life, which allowed for a 10% reduced tax rate. Industry leaders and restaurateurs have weighed in on the impact, with some arguing that the VAT increase will influence large chains more than smaller operators. The Federation of Restaurateurs and Hoteliers pointed out that the higher rate would mainly concern major players such as Vkusno, Rostic’s, and Burger King, while many smaller enterprises would continue to face the 10% rate or exemption. The practical effect for consumers remains a subject of ongoing discussion as the market adjusts to the updated tax structure.