Florida State University students will get their Girl Scout Cookies cheaper than the Gators.
Although cookies all share the same packaging, regions surrounding Gainesville vary in price. Cookies in Gainesville cost $4 a box, and in some other areas of Florida it costs $3.50.
Nancy White, director of communications for Girl Scouts of Gateway Council, said although it looks to the public that cookie season is one big sale, each council is its own independent nonprofit agency.
Alachua County is in the Girl Scouts of Gateway Council, along with 15 other counties.
Damali Reales, a 20-year-old UF sociology sophomore, said she was surprised the prices were not universal.
“Girl Scouts are national,” she said. “You would think there should be a standardized price.”
White said there are two bakers nationally who are licensed to create Girl Scout Cookies, and each council can decide which baker they want to use to negotiate deals.
“Just like any other product, they would set their own negotiations to determine what price they are going to pay for their cookies,” she said. “And they would negotiate that deal independently.”
The price reflects the economic region and the needs of the council, she said.
White said she doesn’t think UF students will turn away because the additional 50 cents.
“Girl Scout Cookies are a delicious snack meant to be eaten in moderation,” she said. “But we know you are going to stock up.”
Sarah Williams, a 20-year-old UF speech pathology sophomore, said the 50 cents wouldn’t keep her from buying her favorite cookie, Thin Mints.
“I think people will still buy them,” she said. “They’re so good.”
White said because the cookies are for a good cause, students shouldn’t feel guilty about the extra pounds they will gain during cookie season.
“It’s a fundraising program, but it’s also a leadership program for girls. For us it’s not really about cookies,” she said. “Though we love the cookies.”
Girl Scout Cookie season will last until March 25.
Contact Alexa Volland at avolland@alligator.org.
Michelle Manzione, a 23-year-old UF telecommunication senior, pays Sara Barner-Rasmussen, 32, while Nissa Barner-Rasmussen, 9, gathers cookies Monday at the Publix on 34th Street and Williston Road.
