Slim stock and higher prices on tires, experts say

TYLER - "Unfortunately about every three months we've seen a six to eight percent increase in the price of tires. From not just one but every manufacturer."

Lance Miller sells tires at Goolsbee Tire in Tyler. He says like many businesses across the nation, the tire business is down and some are beginning to feel the pinch.

"It has a lot to do with the cost of the raw materials to make, supply and demand has a lot to do with it."

With the economy in the shape it's in, and higher prices, you might think Miller is having a problem moving his product.Well he is, but it's not because there are fewer customers.

"People are replacing tires on their older cars sold. The manufacturer are having a hard time keeping up with the demand for them."

Experts believe this may be a problem for some time as the economy continues to fall they believe prices may continue to rise, but experts say increased demand not the only reason for the tire shortage. Some tire plants have shut down, back in 2007 the Goodyear plant in Tyler closed it's doors for good. We spoke with Harold Sweat a former employee of the plant who give us this statement.

"Although the Goodyear footprint is fading, as the signs have been removed, the impact on the people affected will forever be in their minds. The closure was a life altering event with a devastating effect on those affected."

With higher cost, and now higher demand, Miller says he'll continue to do what he can to make ends meet.

"We plan on doing everything we can to absorb our part of it and still be able to stay in business."