Fuel prices adding up for area businesses

Companies forced to factor in surge in energy costs

WISCONSIN – As quickly as the flip of a light switch, the price business became more costly in 2005.

Spiking electric, natural gas and fuel costs all battered Fox Valley companies. Rising costs especially hit the energy-dependent paper industry, the foundation of region’s industry and economy.

“It’s a huge issue, whether you are a small, nonintegrated like ourselves, or a large integrated pulp mill,” said Tom Danz, president and chief executive officer of Whiting Paper Co. in Menasha. “Energy is your number one cost.”

Dan O’Neil, president of Tandem Industries, a Kaukauna machine shop, said anyone who receives supplies via truck saw price increases and surcharges. Adding to the pinch was the costs of heating, electricity and natural gas.

Appleton Post-Crescent