May 15, 2007

Businesses, organizations say higher prices for letters, packages will add up quicklyBy Lindsay SchoonPJStar.com

Peoria – For Bibo Gallerie, an eclectic art and gift shop, the increase in the price of stamps is just the latest in a string of higher business expenses.

Rising gasoline and electricity costs have required the store to raise prices, even as profit margins have fallen.

Now, because much of its inventory comes in through the mail, the Sheridan Road shop also will have to deal with added costs passed on by shippers.

“It’s difficult to stay in business because profit is eaten away by increases,” store manager Kris Nelson said. “You can only go so far in prices. You don’t want to out-price yourself against larger stores who have many stores who can absorb these costs more easily than our small business can.”

Read complete article.