Lee County mobile pet groomers raise prices as gas costs climb
LEE COUNTY, Fla. —
Drivers across the Gulf Coast are paying more than $4 a gallon for gas. Those higher prices are hitting mobile businesses that rely on gas to serve customers.
“I have been telling my clients I might have to raise my prices because the gas is just way too expensive. I mean, I am really hurting over it. I’m dipping into my own pay,” said Mary Starkloff.
Mary Starkloff, owner of Star Pet Salon, a mobile pet groomer in Lee County, tried not to let rising gas prices land on her customers.
“I have no choice. I have to pay my business and I have to pay myself,” said Starkloff.
Her business runs on the road, which means every mile comes with a fuel cost.
“It cost me $75 to fill up just my truck all the way to full,” said Starkloff.
Not only does she have to fill up her truck, she has to keep her generator fueled too.
“My generator is what powers my trailer and what powers my business. My generator cost me $40 just to fill up. And then I also have to have backup fuel as well for my generator. So putting that into perspective, well over $75 to cover gas,” said Starkloff.
Now, she and those with other mobile shops are facing another challenge of having tough conversations with their clients.
“A lot of people are also feeling it. So if I have to raise my prices, they’re going to try and find something cheaper and not get the best quality,” said Starkloff.
Starkloff hopes the increase is temporary, but says the community support has helped.
DOWNLOAD the free Gulf Coast News app for your latest news and alerts on breaking news, weather, sports, entertainment, and more on your phone or tablet. And check out the Very Local Gulf Coast app to stream news, entertainment and original programming on your TV.