However, because food inflation was both sharp and sustained, these businesses found their customers willing to accept price increases–and, because inflation was widespread across the industry, those who acted swiftly experienced better performance. In fact, businesses that raised prices sooner rather than later found themselves in a more advantageous position than those who held back. Now that commodity prices have fallen and runaway inflation has started to subside, food, beverage, and agribusiness companies–even those that didn't raise prices–may have some breathing room on the horizon. The food industry is starting to see light at the end of the tunnel despite continued high labor costs and lingering pandemic-related operational disruptions. Food industry margins have been reinforced by a number of post-pandemic shifts that are adding flexibility to the value chain.