Rising fuel prices are adding to mounting financial pressures on Cumbrian businesses and consumers, the head of the county's Chamber of Commerce has warned.
The average price of unleaded petrol in Cumbria is currently around 172.7p per litre, while diesel stands at 198.7p per litre, with diesel prices reaching record highs nationally.
Recent data shows Cumbria remains slightly below the UK average, but businesses are still feeling the strain.
The managing director of the Cumbria Chamber of Commerce, Suzanne Caldwell said the impact was being felt across the economy, from haulage firms and farmers to manufacturers, retailers and service businesses.
She said: "Rising fuel costs are affecting just about everyone. Small and medium businesses and big businesses too.
"And it seems only set to get worse."
Ms Caldwell said transport and logistics operators were experiencing significant increases in operating costs, while firms that move goods themselves or rely on suppliers were also being hit as higher costs were passed through supply chains.
She added that fuel prices were also affecting businesses whose staff travel to meet customers or carry out work away from their premises.
"All of this comes at a time when businesses are already hard-pressed," she said.
The Chamber chief warned that the effect extended beyond the workplace, with consumers facing higher costs for goods and services as businesses absorb or pass on increased transport expenses.
She also pointed to the impact on rural communities, where many homes and businesses rely on heating oil.
"The pressure on consumers can only lead to increased wage demands, hitting businesses still further," she said.
Ms Caldwell called on Chancellor ministers to consider the impact of rising fuel costs and wider business pressures ahead of the forthcoming Budget.
She said the Government was benefiting from higher VAT receipts as fuel prices rise and argued that some of that additional revenue should be used to reduce costs for businesses.
"We're also calling for the Chancellor to consider the impact on business and on business growth before making decisions on measures in the forthcoming Budget," she said.
Share