The Café Urknall, you have noticed, has been closed for quite some time and until further notice. The reasons for this are complex, which is why we would like to inform you.
The reason for the closure is a staff shortage in our entire university catering. This makes it impossible for us to compensate at short notice for the fact that one of our three colleagues on site is unfortunately ill for a longer period of time and the other two had to be transferred to another cafeteria for capacity reasons. For us, the situation currently resembles a balancing act: On the one hand, we would like to ensure that you can be supplied as quickly, comprehensively, healthily and deliciously as possible. At the same time, with the staff shortage, we also have to take into account the fact that our other facilities on campus are much more central, larger and more heavily frequented.
This is also reflected economically: already in 2019, before the pandemic, the Contrast cafeteria was covering almost 90 percent of its costs, and the Denkpause cafeteria almost 80 percent. Urknall, on the other hand, covered less than 60 percent of its operating costs even then. This trend has continued to this day - despite adjustments to the product range - during the pandemic and is more problematic than ever for us due to the enormous inflation and dynamic price developments.
Despite the fact that the Café Urknall is currently closed, we offer sweet and savory snacks on site via three vending machines, as well as cold drinks and coffee specialties.
If you would like to have a warm plate meal or take your time for a snack, you still have nearby options for this: About 6 minutes walking time are between Urknall and Cafeteria Denkpause or Mensa Vaihingen, even closer is the Cafeteria Contrast. We therefore very much hope that we can continue to satisfy you with our offer in the future.