Arizona is Bracing for Surging Prices and Drastic Shortages

Do you think prices are high now? Buckle up because we could be in for a bumpy ride.

The Teamster Union strike could have a ripple effect on prices, impacting Arizona and the nation.

As the Teamsters in transportation and warehousing announced they're going on strike, Arizona is bracing for severe supply chain disruptions. AP News reports that thousands of Teamsters have walked off the job, demanding better wages and working conditions.

While the Arizona Teamsters are not on strike, Arizona's consumers will still be affected.

The Possible Effect of the Teamsters' Strike on Arizona

Brace yourself because higher prices and shortages are coming.

ABC News reports that the fallout of the Teamsters strike means essential goods will not make it to market on time. Much like the upheaval we saw during the Covid lockdowns, there's a good chance the whole system could grind to a screeching halt.

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Products like fresh produce, dairy, and meat rely heavily on timely transportation to grocery store shelves. The strike is set to cause delays, which will lead to price hikes and shortages.

READ: Arizona Costco Announces a Big Change

The strike will not only affect goods requiring a quick turn-around, though. Look out for a spike in the price of non-perishable goods like canned foods, beverages, and household items to be affected. 

But that's not all; critical electronics and auto parts could also surge prices, which could further snarl the supply chain.

READ: 'Frightening'. Arizona is 16th Deadliest State for Truck Drivers

Arizona Workers in the Teamsters Union

If the Teamsters are on strike, does that affect Arizona workers? Several jobs in Arizona have workers represented by the Teamsters Union, but they're not going on strike. At least not yet.

Here are some of the Arizona companies with Teamsters:

• UPS: Drivers, warehouse workers (both full-time and part-time), and mechanics.
• Sysco Corporation: Warehouse workers and drivers.
• US Foods Holding Corporation: Mechanics, drivers, and warehouse workers.
• Albertsons Companies, Inc.: Warehouse workers and drivers.
• Cemex, Inc.: Mechanics and drivers.

Prepare for Shortages and Higher Prices in Arizona

Arizona has already been through enough.  If you're already suffering sticker shock when you go grocery shopping, this event will not make our lives any easier.

No matter what, the cost of goods will increase again. As we've learned again and again over the last few years, what goes up does not necessarily come back down.

Sources: AP News | ABC News | Arizona Teamsters | Newsweek