i've been a corporate consultant for roughly 20years. Last year, I started working with the biggest restaurant consulting firm in NYC, The Restaurant Company. I can tell you, one of the most honest truths I can bring to this conversation is how the world works; plain and simple. We as consumers, pay for service. and I'm not referring to the service of a waiter; the service fees associated with service. NOTHING in this world is priced at cost, price is determined by the "perceived value". Not something you should be depressed about, but just aware of, as a consumer. If you pursue to purchase things at cost, you will have to chop out a few middle men. Your vendor, your farmer and the entity you walked in to purchase the meal. Your pockets are paying for convenience, unless you have an interest and time in growing your own garden and raising a few cattle.

James Leak Head QSR Advisor The Restaurant Company www.therestaurantcompany.us