MenuKosten

MenuKosten is a term used in economics and business to describe the costs associated with changing the prices listed in a firm's pricing menu. The expression borrows from the metaphor of a restaurant menu, illustrating that updating advertised prices is not instantaneous or free. These costs can arise in physical form, such as reprinting menus and price tags, as well as in informational and organizational forms, such as updating systems and communicating changes to staff and customers.

Typical components include printing or design costs for new menus, updating price displays and point-of-sale data, changes to supplier agreements, staff training, and the risk of temporary mispricing during the transition. In addition, firms may incur customer confusion, loss of goodwill, or changes in demand if prices are changed too often.

In macroeconomics, menu costs are cited as a source of price stickiness, slowing the adjustment of prices in response to shocks. In retail, hospitality, and online commerce, understanding MenuKosten helps managers balance the benefits of price adjustment against the cost of implementing such changes. Digital technologies, such as electronic menus, QR codes, and dynamic pricing platforms, can reduce MenuKosten by enabling easier updates and real-time pricing.

See also: menu costs; price stickiness; dynamic pricing; pricing strategy.