Local businesses carry on despite inflation

ODESSA - Rural communities across the United States were struggling even before the pandemic. However, local businesses are still holding on despite rising wages, inflation and people simply moving from the area.

Local business owners agree that the community helps these businesses stay open.

Odessa Hardware has been a staple in the area for over 100 years under various names. Owner Matt Roberson said he has yet to see too much of an issue with inflation.

"I haven't seen any impacts from inflation," Roberson said. "We are blessed with a strong customer base who pride themselves with shopping locally and keep businesses flourishing here."

Studio 1 on South 3rd in Harrington owner Paula Harrington said the pandemic made it harder to maintain customer relationships.

"We saw a lack of relationship building," Harrington said.

Harrington added that getting the supplies to make masks was challenging. She made masks for a fee for the Harrington and Odessa school districts.

"I had to get very creative," Harrington said. "I made better than the 2200 masks and donated over 500 to those that needed one."

Harrington said there hasn't been significant changes in spending due to inflation.

"I haven't seen that much of an impact," Harrington said. "Our clients are going to purchase it if they choose, even if it costs a bit more."

Heather Slack, who owns The Post & Office in Harrington, said their business was closed entirely at the start of the pandemic.

"We were unable to have customers inside," Slack said. "But it was important for us to stay in contact with our customers and offer something special for those willing to come out."

Slack said it was the Monday morning connection they enjoyed. In addition, she noted organizing the shop to increase its retail offerings helped the business.

"By being extra flexible with our coffee shop plan," Slack said. "And by offering more retail items, we could accommodate customers easily and adjust to the changes."

Slack said supporting the community and other local businesses have been a staple.

"We felt so supported by our local community who made an effort to shop small and local," she said. "Being extra flexible and resilient was not new to us."

Slack said the community business owners helped one another by picking up supplies, sharing goods, supporting each other on projects and working together.

Owner Pete Brickner of the Tribune Smokehouse said most small businesses and people are dealing with inflation.

"All small businesses are dealing with the cost of food," Brickner said. "And people buying groceries for their houses."

Brickner said the inflation has affected his business's margins, but that can be managed.

"Wage increases are something we anticipated," Brickner said. "We have to tighten our belt, but we're getting through it."