Material costs put heat on business

GRAND RAPIDS, MI – Taking the temperature of West Michigan’s business climate is tricky this year.

Look at the range covered by the thermometer, at left, that illustrates predicted changes in commodity and service prices for 2006. No single price will change exactly that amount, of course, but it gives you an idea of the range of volatility.

The result is manufacturers and service providers alike are caught in a vise grip between higher commodity prices and customers who “just say no” to paying more.

Outlook 2006 looks at how local companies are coping.

Grand Rapids Press