"Inflation Drives Local Restaurant to Charge $16 for a BLT, Owners Discuss Cost Strategies"

Brian Will, CEO of Will Restaurants Investment Group, explained on "Varney & Co." the reasons behind the nearly $16 price tag for a BLT sandwich at his restaurant. Rising operational costs, including rent, utilities, labor, and inflation, have significantly increased the expenses of running his business. Despite the wholesale cost of the sandwich being $5, the need to cover these growing costs has pushed the retail price up from $12.99 to $15.99 over three years. Will highlighted the financial pressures of the restaurant industry, such as fixed yearly increases in rent, a 30% increase in labor costs, and a 40% increase in insurance, all contributing to the challenging economic environment for restaurateurs.