Free warning this will be a bit of a rant more than anything else. As with most things right now prices are going up. There are several reasons for this, both factual and conjecture.

One fact that is undeniable is the fact that a year ago lead was under 50 cents a pound and is now over $1.25 a pound and has courted almost $1.80 just a month or so ago. Now $1.25 might seem like pocket change.

Now, consider that a typical PS-12750 wheelchair battery weighs 55 lbs and most wheelchairs require 2 of these. The lead accounts for approximately 70% of the weight of a battery which means 38.5 lbs of lead per battery. With a little simple arithmetic that means for the 2 batteries 77 lbs of lead is required. That means in just a year these batteries will have increased by more than $60!

Anyone that knows about retail understands that the manufacturer adds a bit to cover their costs, the retailers add theirs, and we pick up the tab. I know that we’re all feeling a little leaner in the wallet (especially after you hit the gas station) and I really don’t see that changing anytime soon.

What about you? Do you see the current rising spiral of pricing begin to stabilize or are we all in the proverbial creek without a paddle?

Written by
  Ken

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