We are all sharing the burden of higher prices

A longtime customer called two days ago about placing an order for an office meeting. “I see you have raised your prices,” she said.

“Yes,” I answered, “in January when minimum wage went up.”

I didn’t list the other reasons, including my lease increased 29 percent, my suppliers have added a $5 to $7.50 fuel surcharge to each delivery and other constant increases.

Each of us is paying high gas prices and seeing it reflected in everything we purchase. We are all sharing the burden of price increases.

My customer said, “Someone said you’re putting less meat on your sandwich. Is that true?”

“No!” I responded. After 30 years of making sandwiches, I have always put the same amount of meat and cheese on every sandwich I make. She agreed, saying, “That’s what I thought, but I had to ask.”

She also said a coworker told her there was a $5 deal elsewhere. She told him she wanted quality. “You get what you pay for” is very true. Good ingredients make a good product.

Tips to keep the cost of your lunch down at my place: stick with the basics; avoid adding avocado, bacon, extra meat or cheese. Drink regular soda or bottled water; premium drinks cost more. Take your food “to go;” a cold sandwich costs 7.75 percent more to eat in.

Keep eating, stay upbeat and help a friend or stranger when you can. “It’s important to care” is my wife’s constant reminder.

Dominick Grossi, Jr.

Dominick’s Delicatessen