This post is part of a series chronicling news coverage of rising prices in the United States. See more here.
Arkansas' 40/29 News explains how higher fuel prices and inflation are leading to higher grocery prices
Reporter: “With fuel prices remaining high, relief might not be coming any time soon”
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Citation
From a May 28, 2026, video uploaded to the YouTube channel of KHBS 40/29 News
COLE MAKOS (40/29 NEWS REPORTER): According to the Department of Labor, beef and veal prices were up 14.8% nationally in April compared to where they were in 2025. Those higher prices for beef and other groceries have been felt here in Arkansas, too. I spoke with the executive director of the Arkansas Retailers Association today, and he told me that with fuel prices remaining high, relief may not be coming anytime soon. Grocery prices are up nationwide. The rising prices are putting a strain on consumers' wallets. The leading causes for these continued high prices are a combination of the effects of inflation and high fuel prices.
STEVE GOODE (GUEST): Anytime fuel prices increase, you’re going to see an increase in grocery prices. With diesel prices well over $5 a gallon right now, a lot of our members are getting charged fuel surcharges by the warehouses that supply them. And so, you know, unfortunately, those prices have to be passed on to the consumer.
MAKOS: Beef products in particular have seen noticeable price increases. Steve Goode, the executive director of the Arkansas Retailers Association, says that increased demand and lower supply have kept beef prices high.
GOODE: You’ve seen a steady climb in demand while the supply has declined equally in the other direction. You know, we’re at a probably 75-year low on cattle herds.
MAKOS: Goode says that until fuel prices stabilize, grocery prices will continue to stay high.
GOODE: Fuel costs going down, I think, would lower the cost, our cost of goods, and then we can pass that back on to the consumer.