Bilirakis Visits Independently-Owned Grocery Store in Dade City to Discuss Inflation, Supply Chain Issues, and Workforce Shortages

Dade City, Florida: Earlier today, Congressman Gus Bilirakis visited Save-A-Lot grocery store in Dade City, Florida. This discount supermarket grocery store is one of more than 50 stores throughout Tampa Bay owned and operated by Michael Needler, CEO of Fresh Encounters. Mr. Needler says his organization's mission is to delight customers with low prices and value, nourish communities, and inspire pride among team members. Congressman Bilirakis visited the independent grocery to learn more about how pandemic-era supply chain issues, lingering workforce shortages, record high inflation, and the high price of gas are impacting the grocer's ability to keep shelves stocked for customers. During the visit, it was clear these issues have been problematic for the resilient retailer.

"By talking to employees and customers, it was clear that many in our community have not been able to afford the skyrocketing cost of basic necessities, like food,"said Congressman Bilirakis. "While costs at Save-A-Lot remain lower than many nearby competitors, prices of goods have risen due to increased costs for fuel, materials, and overall operations. The margins in this business are already very small, and it has been impossible not to pass some of the inflationary increases along to the end user. Sadly, families are being forced to make difficult choices and often forego items like fresh fruits and vegetables- turning to lower cost alternatives. Managers also report that they are spending more time than ever recruiting quality employees, as the pandemic and subsequent workforce shortage has hit this industry particularly hard. The stories I heard today reflect what is occurring throughout this country due to out-of-control inflation. Congress must stop fueling this crisis with reckless spending, as these Americans are not able to sustain any further increases."