COSTA Coffee has been criticised for slapping a 10p “surcharge” on the price of beverages at NHS outlets.
Patient groups and retail experts accused it of using a “hospital tax” on those visiting sick loved ones.
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The chain has 94 concessions in UK hospitals.
But a Sun on Sunday investigation found it charges 10p more per drink in those compared to its high street shops.
It costs £3.05 for a small latte or cappuccino at Costa’s branch in Northumberland Street, Newcastle, and £3.35 for a medium one.
But down the road at its Medirest-run outlet at the Royal Victoria Infirmary, the same drinks will set you back £3.15 and £3.45 respectively.
It is a similar story at the other end of the country with an Americano at Costa’s site at St Richard’s Hospital in Chichester, West Sussex, costing £2.65, a flat white £3.25, and lattes and cappuccinos £3.15.
The same drinks bought at its East Street branch just a walk away are all 10p cheaper.
The disparity was blasted by Dennis Reed, director of campaign group Silver Voices.
He said: “They know with long waiting times for patients and their relatives, they have captive customers who need refreshments, so they slap on a hospital surcharge.”
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Martin James of The Sun’s Squeeze Team added: “Of all of the examples of price gouging, this effective hospital tax is one of the worst I have seen.
“There is no excuse for this whatsoever.”
Costa insisted the pricing is set by its partners.
A spokesman added: “It is not uncommon to find some Costa Coffee products that are priced higher, reflecting the unique locations and operating costs associated with those locations.”
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