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For years, Carolyn Labolt has worked hard to keep her business running, navigating challenges like the pandemic and supply chain disruptions. But now, a new hurdle threatens its survival—rising tariffs that could drastically increase costs and leave her with few options to stay competitive.
“We already have a very, very small markup on our products,” Labolt said. “If we’re hit with an additional 25 or 30 percent in costs, I honestly don’t know how we’ll manage without raising prices—and that could drive customers away.”
Labolt’s store specializes in jams, baked goods, and niche retail products like puzzles. Many of these items are imported or rely on materials sourced from outside the country, making them especially vulnerable to the impact of new tariffs. As prices climb, small businesses like hers are feeling the squeeze, caught between the rising cost of goods and the risk of losing customers who may not be willing—or able—to pay more.
She isn’t alone in this struggle. Across the country, small business owners are facing difficult choices. Some are looking for alternative suppliers, while others are being forced to cut costs elsewhere, whether by reducing staff, lowering quality, or even considering shutting down altogether.
For Labolt, the challenge is not just about numbers—it’s about maintaining the community-focused business she has poured so much effort into. “We want to keep providing quality products at prices people can afford,” she said. “But with these new costs, I’m not sure how we can make it work.”
With uncertainty looming, she and other business owners are hoping for solutions—whether in the form of policy changes, supplier adjustments, or customer support. Until then, they are bracing for what could be the toughest challenge yet.
