> What makes 2022 so unique COVID was the omni-excuse. You didn’t have to say “we’re raising prices because we want to make obscene profits.” Instead, you coul

> What makes 2022 so unique COVID was the omni-excuse. You didn’t have to say “we’re raising prices because we want to make obscene profits.” Instead, you could shrug sympathetically with the customer and say, “well, you know, times are tough. It’s hard to get the things you need, and we’re trying to get this at a price as affordable as we can… oh, also, hit the tip button on the screen from now on because our staff are working so hard through the pandemic and it’s so hard to find help (at the price we want to pay).” Never underestimate a good story.