There's nothing like a trip to the gas station to raise one's awareness of energy prices. Yet it doesn't require filling up the tank - or opening a utility bill - to feel the bite of rising fuel costs.
Carpet, fertilizer, paint, polyester and plastic toys, all of which are petroleum-based, are more expensive to make, wrap and ship these days. As a result, companies around the globe are struggling and a growing number are charging more for well-known products, including Goodyear tires, Scotts fertilizer and Kenmore refrigerators.
So far price increases have been modest, and economists say there is little threat of inflation or other serious damage to the economic recovery. But if energy costs stay high, consumers might have to dig even deeper for home furnishings, auto parts, agriculture products and more ...