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Tariffs

Tariffs Hit Local Florists and Bridal Shops, Hitting Customers with Higher Prices

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Locally-owned florists and bridal shops in the US are facing a difficult time due to the tariffs imposed by the Trump administration. These tariffs have led to increased costs for wholesale flowers and bridal gowns, forcing businesses to either absorb the costs or pass them on to customers. As a result, prices for flowers and wedding dresses have risen significantly, affecting the sales of local shops.

Key Takeaways:

  • The tariffs imposed by the Trump administration have increased the cost of wholesale flowers by 10-30% for local florists.
  • The majority of flowers sold in the US are imported from Canada, Mexico, and South America, with Canada and Mexico facing a 35% and 25% tariff rate, respectively.
  • Certain types of flowers, such as roses, have been hit especially hard by tariffs, with prices increasing by 20-30%.
  • Local florists have limited options for buying locally grown flowers, with seasonal flowers and Amish communities being the primary sources.
  • The prices of bridal gowns have increased by $150-$200 due to tariffs, with 90% of bridal gowns being made in China.
  • The tariffs have not affected the prices of menswear available for rental or purchase at Girls in White Satin Bridal & Formal Wear.
  • Some dressmakers and accessory manufacturers have had their tariffs lifted, meaning they no longer charge an increased rate.

Statistics:

  • The tariffs imposed by the Trump administration have increased the cost of wholesale flowers by 10-30%.
  • The average price of a wedding gown has increased by $150-$200 due to tariffs.
  • 90% of bridal gowns are made in China.
  • The tariffs imposed on Canadian imports are 35%, while those on Mexican imports are 25%.
  • The tariffs imposed on South American imports are under the baseline 10% tariff rate.

Sources:

  • Barber Florist, 901 W. Morton Ave.
  • John Vaughn, owner and manager of Barber Florist
  • Trade Compliance Resource Hub
  • Girls in White Satin Bridal & Formal Wear, 300 E. State St.
  • Terryl Boulanger, co-owner of Girls in White Satin Bridal & Formal Wear
  • National Bridal Retailers Association
  • Tribune Content Agency, LLC
  • The Jacksonville Journal-Courier (Jacksonville, Ill.)

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