Rising Costs Hit Local Businesses | Durham News

Local businesses are scrambling as soaring fuel and goods costs force creative pivots—restaurant owners like Anthony Rapillo are tightening inventory and rethinking value to stay afloat. The spike? Blamed on U.S.-Iran tensions pushing oil past $100 for the first time in months, with diesel nearing $6 a gallon. Experts say prices won’t ease until after the 2026 elections, while farmers brace for brutal harvests amid skyrocketing diesel bills. It’s not just about the menu anymore—it’s about delivering worth at every price point. Listen in comfort: Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN: [email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting. Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates: https://sources.thednn.ai/b32f0ebc076eabed