School supplies rise 6.5 percent as prices vary widely

Prices for school supplies have risen by about 6.5 percent since last year, while some products differ in price by as much as 101 percent, ORF Vorarlberg reports, citing the latest price monitor from the Vorarlberg Chamber of Labour.

A comparison of 53 school items at five online retailers and three specialist stores found significant differences. The same branded eraser cost between 0.79 and 1.59 euros, while a 12-pack of felt-tip pens ranged from 3.99 to 6.99 euros. A 20-page lined exercise notebook cost between 1.69 and 2.49 euros.

Schoolbag sets also varied considerably. The cheapest multi-piece sets, including items such as a pencil case and sports bag, cost between 60 and 126 euros. The most expensive sets ranged from 80 to 290 euros.

Chamber urges families to compare prices

“The start of the school year has become more expensive in recent years, and that will not change in the future,” said Bernhard Heinzle, president of the Vorarlberg Chamber of Labour. He advised families to compare prices in advance and take advantage of discount campaigns before school begins.

Heinzle said the costs were particularly burdensome for families with low incomes and several children. He called for more support from the state of Vorarlberg.

Specialist retailers offer advice

Specialist retailers are also offering discounts on school supplies. René Nick, manager of a specialist store in Rankweil, said retailers understood that equipping one or more children could quickly become expensive. Alongside quality, it was important to put together the right equipment, he said.

His store works with teachers to prepare individual shopping lists. The required items are assembled in the store and can then be collected together. If an item proves unsuitable, customers can exchange it there.

Advice on quality and second-hand items

The Chamber of Labour advised families to shop sustainably and prioritise quality so that products last as long as possible. It recommended refillable felt-tip pens and choosing a suitable fountain pen, ideally together with the child.

The chamber also said second-hand platforms generally offered a wide selection and often good quality. “It has to be good. And not everything always has to be new,” Heinzle said.

Support for families in need

Families in need can receive a school-start card worth 150 euros per schoolchild through the “Schulstartklar!” programme. The card is provided via a mobile phone or app and can be used to buy school supplies at selected stores. The programme is intended for families entitled to minimum-income support or social assistance.

School-start funding is also automatically paid in August as part of the family allowance.