Rising gas prices hit local food trucks ahead of busy season
Despite the rising costs, food truck owners say this is their favorite time of year, but they're hoping for some relief at the pump.
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As gas prices continue to climb, local food truck owners say they’re feeling the impact and doing everything they can to avoid passing those costs on to customers.
Elaine Piotrowski, owner of Roxy’s Ice Cream Truck, says fuel expenses have become one of her biggest concerns heading into the new season. Last year, she spent about $6,500 on gas for the truck and diesel for the generator. With prices rising, she worries that number could jump significantly.
“I bet it’s going to be $9,000,” she says.
Piotrowski opens for the season on April 11 and plans to keep prices the same as last year.
At The Branded Bun, owners Bruce and Lynda Vatske are already out on the road and serving at local campuses. They’re also trying to not raise their prices.
“We’re trying to keep everything exactly the same,” says Bruce Vatske.
Similar to Roxy's Ice Cream Truck, The Branded Bun requires frequent fill‑ups.
“You can definitely feel it. It used to be $60 to $70 to fill it up. Now it's about $100 to fill it up," says Vatske.
Despite the rising costs, both food truck owners say this is their favorite time of year. They're hoping for some relief at the pump.
“It’s ramping up now that it’s getting nicer out,” says Vatske.
