Local businesses and food trucks across Utah, including those operating in Hooper, are reporting significant impacts from the rising costs of diesel, gasoline, and nearly all supplies. This financial pressure is challenging operators to find new ways to sustain their operations while serving their communities.
Diesel fuel prices in Utah have notably increased by $2 a gallon compared to last year, according to AAA. The average cost for a gallon of diesel currently stands at $5.66, a substantial rise from $3.63 a year ago. This hike directly affects businesses that rely on fuel for transportation and mobile operations.
John Reynolds, co-owner of Southern Heights BBQ with his son Devin Reynolds, shared how these climbing fuel costs impact his Hooper-based food truck. Reynolds explained that his F250 pickup truck, which has a 30-gallon diesel tank, costs him $100 to fill when it's at half a tank. Southern Heights BBQ made its debut this year at Hooper's annual Tomato Days, an event beloved by local families. Ryan Wilcox, a Hooper resident of seven years, described Tomato Days as a time for the community to unite, support each other, and see neighbors. At the event, Southern Heights BBQ quickly sold out three specials within approximately two hours.
Beyond fuel, the cost of food ingredients presents another major hurdle for the year-and-a-half-old business, which now employs both Reynolds and his son full-time. Reynolds noted that the high cost of beef means their best-selling brisket often only allows them to break even. To counteract these rising expenses while maintaining their homemade quality, Southern Heights BBQ has adopted creative pricing strategies. For example, they purchase sodas for 50 cents each and sell them for $2. Their most popular item, the brisket mac and cheese bowl, sells for $20, and Reynolds stated they ensure customers receive a generous portion that provides full value for their money.
Reynolds described the financial pressure as their "biggest challenge," admitting that "Some days we barely break even." However, he acknowledged that successful weekends, like their debut at Tomato Days, help offset the less profitable days. His overarching goal is to navigate these difficult economic conditions by building a loyal customer base that values both their food and their hospitality. He hopes this strategy will ensure customer retention even when costs eventually decrease, allowing the business to become more profitable.
Ryan Wilcox underscored the importance of community support for local businesses in the current economic climate. Wilcox stated that with the cost of living increasing, many individuals are struggling to hold on, making it important to support local efforts. Events like Tomato Days offer crucial opportunities for residents to support businesses like Southern Heights BBQ. Reynolds expressed his enjoyment in returning to work and his desire to see his "little piece of South Carolina" continue to thrive in the Utah mountains despite the challenges.
