Walton, Ky.-Some small companies based in Kentucky of the North face a uphill battle, trying to keep afloat in the middle of inflation.
Jayne Napier, owner of Bailey Jaynes Bakery & CaféHe said that the last four years have been an act of work and love while working to create delicious sweets and meals for his community despite the growing costs of goods.
“We are just trying to plug and spend this terrible moment,” he said. “The costs continue to climb, go up and up, and I don’t see any end (for).”
She shared that the bakery is very affected by the growing cost of the ingredients. Four years ago, he said he could buy 15 egg cards for $ 28. Now, that same amount costs $ 89, an increase of almost 300%.
“We pass through four boxes per week, so it’s $ 400 per week in eggs,” he said.
It is a shared feeling in northern Kentucky, where small businesses are forced to close their doors due to the increase in costs and lack of purchases of consumers.
Mother and son duo Janine and Joshua Bradbury, co -owners of The black gooseA small cafeteria and an old cafeteria, are concerned about the growing costs of imported coffee grains and rates.
“The biggest concern I have is the growing cost of coffee beans that import the country because it is becoming more expensive due to many factors,” said Joshua Bradbury.
Despite these circumstances, Bradburys and many others are working tirelessly to negotiate prices and keep low costs for customers.
Leaders of the Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce Having a rain of ideas so that they can help smaller businesses and urge people to buy premises.
“We are asking everyone to be intentional and deliberate when visiting those bars and restaurants … and retail stores that are owned by small businesses,” Brent Cooper, president and CEO of the Chamber said. “Do everything possible to sponsor those businesses and help them grow and prosper. We need them in our economy. “
Napier said the business is not just about selling food. It is about connecting with your community.
“You’re not going to get a cooler donut in Walton than us,” he said. “It’s done every night here, ready to go in the morning when you enter the door.”
The Bradburys shared a similar view.
“We are not trying to become millionaires,” said Janine Bradbury. “Just earn some money for all work. I have never worked harder in my life. “
According to a 2023 small businesses reportSmall businesses represent 99% of all companies in Kentucky, which has more than 300,000.