Chili Prices Continue To Soar - Consumers Prepaired to Fight Back.

Chili Chat Investigates:

  The chili industry took yet another blow yesterday, as chili prices closed at an all time high. This marks the third consecutive week that the price per barrel has increased, sending a shockwave of panic though both businesses and consumers. Closing at $165 per barrel, a .12% increase from the previous day's close, the public is beginning to wonder if there is any relief in sight.

Recent disasters in Japan and Myanmar have forced prices through the roof. Bean and chive reserves have been on lockdown due to the uncertainty of the Eastern economy. This has caused a domino effect throughout the rest of the industry. "We just can't keep producing at the same prices we were a few months ago." Lentis Cashmere told Chili Chat. Cashmere is the owner of 35 Fill-N-Chill outlets throughout the Midwest. "I have a hard time explaining to my customers why their favorite pouch of sour cream or their daily thermos fill ups of original firehouse have almost doubled in price. There's really nothing we can do. I'm running a business that tens of millions of people rely on everyday. It's tough and it really seems unfair." said a clearly frustrated Cashmere.

This latest increase has caused a flurry of backlash from angry consumers and frustrated station owners.  Not only have prices to hit the roof, but the quality has suffered as well.  "Yesterday I filled up on my way to work with my usual 3 Bean, only to find out a few miles down the road that it was 2 bean with some noodles thrown in." wrote Beau Panini in a 3 page email to Chili Chat. And this isn't the first time consumers have reached out to Chili Chat looking for support. Over the past 4 months, we have received almost 900 letters from the public, looking for answers or support.

Social network groups have been popping up by the thousands, with titles like "Boycott Chili Day" and "Switch to Soup".  It's apparent that the public is in a tizzy and our wallets are certainly suffering.  We're determined to forge ahead and hope that this too shall pass. Until then, we encourage consumers to spend wisely and if possible chili-pool with friends and co-workers.

In effort to provide relief for our loyal readers, Chili Chat will be raffling off a $500 chili card for any participating Fill-N-Chill station in the greater Midwest region.

Cheers,