Hal Lawton, CEO of Tractor Supply Company, leads a retailer facing higher costs as oil prices surge and shelves buckle under inflation.
Oil prices have risen after regional conflict has intensified, pushing up fuel costs and consumer prices. Analysts say the spike is likely to pass through to groceries and other goods as supply chains adapt. Gas prices have climbed, with motorists paying more at the pump, while some refiners face damage that could sustain price pressure.