The 25% Tariff Shock: How Trump’s Heavy Truck Tax Could Cripple Your Food Truck Business

In a surprising announcement, President Trump imposed a 25% tariff on heavy trucks not built in the U.S. This move is reshaping the landscape for food truck operators. As these tariffs go into effect on October 1, 2025, food truck equipment costs are rising unexpectedly. This increase threatens the financial stability of small businesses nationwide.

Food trucks often depend on accessible pricing for durable equipment, making these changes particularly concerning. Moreover, the implications extend beyond just rising expenses; they highlight a broader shift in market dynamics that could hinder innovation and growth in the food truck sector.

As we evaluate the specific impacts of these tariffs, it becomes apparent that they could have enduring effects on an industry known for its agility and entrepreneurial spirit.

Financial Impact Insight: The Effects of 25% Tariffs on Food Truck Businesses

The recent imposition of 25% tariffs on heavy trucks not built in the U.S. will have substantial financial implications for food truck businesses, fundamentally reshaping their operational landscape.

Equipment Cost Increases

With the American Trucking Associations estimating that the tariffs could raise the cost of a new Class 8 truck by approximately $30,000, the financial burden will fall heavily on food truck operators. A food truck’s vehicle is often its most significant investment, and the price of Class 8 tractors has already risen markedly from approximately $140,000 in 2021 to around $170,000 in 2023, which is a staggering 21% increase. Small businesses, which already operate on slender margins, may find these additional costs prohibitive, jeopardizing their ability to purchase new trucks or upgrade existing ones.

As reported by industry leader Paccar, the parent company of well-known brands such as Kenworth and Peterbilt, the financial toll of these tariffs is evident. In the third quarter of 2025 alone, Paccar projected $75 million in tariff-related costs. The disparity in pricing is further compounded when comparing U.S. manufactured trucks, which are around $30,000 pricier than similar models made in Mexico, now exempt from these tariffs. This situation places food truck operators in a severe disadvantage, forcing them to reconsider vehicle investment choices.

Pricing Strategies and Customer Retention

The increase in costs will necessitate adjustments in pricing strategies for food truck operators. Raising menu prices to counteract these equipment costs poses a delicate balancing act. Higher prices could alienate budget-conscious customers and potentially reduce foot traffic. Historical data shows that even a modest price increase—for instance, an additional $1 per menu item—can substantially decrease customer retention rates. These challenges are exacerbated by the thin net margins seen in the food truck industry, which generally average between 7% and 8%.

American Trucking Associations president Chris Spear expressed his concerns, stating, “We support the goal of creating domestic jobs. However, the implementation of these tariffs will likely increase costs for truck buyers at a time when the industry is already navigating through a challenging operating environment.”

Profitability Effects

The combination of rising operational costs and limited pricing flexibility can drastically affect profitability in the food truck sector. With net profit margins already precariously low, the increased load from equipment costs can trigger a downward spiral, leading to greater financial strain or even closures among affected food truck operations. Business owners may be compelled to explore alternative strategies—such as seeking used vehicles, diversifying suppliers, or rethinking menu offerings—to mitigate these new financial pressures.

In summary, the financial impact of the 25% tariff on heavy trucks will likely extend far beyond the cost of vehicles, influencing pricing structures and overall business sustainability. As food truck operators adapt to these changes, their agility and entrepreneurial spirit will be put to the test in navigating this new economic landscape.

Historical Tariff Impacts on the Food Truck Industry

Tariffs have historically influenced various sectors of the food industry, including food trucks, by increasing operational costs and prompting significant adjustments. While direct data on the food truck industry is limited, insights from related sectors provide a comprehensive understanding of these impacts.

Increased Vehicle and Equipment Costs

The “Chicken Tax,” a 25% tariff imposed in 1964 on imported light trucks, exemplifies how tariffs can elevate vehicle costs. This tariff was intended to protect domestic automakers but inadvertently increased prices for imported vehicles, affecting businesses reliant on such trucks. Food truck operators, who often utilize light trucks as their operational base, faced higher acquisition costs due to this tariff. This situation echoes concerns raised by the American Trucking Associations, emphasizing that tariffs can inflate costs significantly source.

Supply Chain Disruptions and Ingredient Price Hikes

Tariffs on imported food products have led to supply chain disruptions and increased ingredient costs. For instance, tariffs on imported cheeses forced distributors to pay more in 2025, a burden that inevitably trickled down the supply chain. Similarly, tariffs on imported seafood inflated the cost of popular dishes, impacting both the distributor’s procurement budget and food truck menu pricing strategies source.

Operational Adjustments and Profit Margin Squeeze

In response to rising costs from tariffs, food service businesses, including food trucks, have had to make operational adjustments. These include sourcing domestic or regional alternatives without compromising quality, negotiating long-term contracts with suppliers to lock in prices, adjusting menu pricing and portion sizes to reflect increased costs, and educating customers about sourcing changes to maintain transparency source.

In summary, while specific data on the food truck industry is scarce, historical instances demonstrate that tariffs can lead to increased vehicle and equipment costs, supply chain disruptions, and necessitate operational adjustments, all of which can significantly impact profit margins.

This showcases how interconnected the food truck industry is with broader economic policies and market conditions, illustrating the substantial challenges that can arise from tariff implementations.

Manufacturer Equipment Type Cost Before Tariff ($) Cost After Tariff ($) Price Increase ($)
Paccar Class 8 Truck 140,000 175,000 35,000
Peterbilt Class 8 Truck 145,000 181,250 36,250
Kenworth Class 8 Truck 142,000 177,500 35,500
Freightliner Class 8 Truck 138,000 172,500 34,500
Volvo Class 8 Truck 148,000 185,000 37,000
Manufacturer Equipment Type Cost Before Tariff ($) Cost After Tariff ($) Price Increase ($)
Paccar Class 8 Truck 140,000 175,000 35,000
Peterbilt Class 8 Truck 145,000 181,250 36,250
Kenworth Class 8 Truck 142,000 177,500 35,500
Freightliner Class 8 Truck 138,000 172,500 34,500
Volvo Class 8 Truck 148,000 185,000 37,000

Conclusion

In conclusion, the 25% tariffs imposed on heavy trucks not built in the U.S. mark a significant threat to the financial stability and operational viability of food truck businesses. As these tariffs take effect, food truck operators face unprecedented equipment costs that could cripple their profitability and hinder their ability to serve customers effectively. It is imperative for food truck owners to adopt proactive strategies to mitigate these financial pressures.

One food truck owner, Sophia Lin of “Tasty Wheels,” shared, “In times like these, our adaptability is our greatest asset. We started sourcing locally and evaluating our menu to keep our costs in check without compromising quality. It’s about being smart with our resources and making sure we stay connected with our community.”

Similarly, James Patel, an industry leader, emphasized, “The future belongs to those who can pivot and innovate. Our community learned to adapt quickly. It’s not just about surviving; it’s about thriving in adversity by finding new suppliers, reallocating budgets and focusing on efficiency.”

Seeking alternative suppliers, both domestically and internationally, could provide more competitive pricing on essential equipment. Additionally, investing in used trucks or exploring leasing options may offer some relief from the immediate financial burden of new purchases. Innovation within menu offerings and operational efficiencies can also help offset rising costs and sustain customer loyalty. The capacity of food truck operators to navigate this volatile environment will ultimately determine their resilience and success in the coming years.

A heavy truck symbolizing rising costs due to tariffs

Perspectives of Industry Leaders on Tariffs

The recent implementation of a 25% tariff on medium- and heavy-duty trucks has sparked diverse opinions among industry leaders, reflecting various concerns regarding its implications for the trucking industry and food truck operators.

President Donald J. Trump articulated his rationale for the tariffs in a public statement on October 17, 2025, emphasizing the need to protect “our Great Heavy Truck Manufacturers from unfair outside competition”. He noted that companies such as Peterbilt, Kenworth, Freightliner, and Mack Trucks would benefit from this policy, reinforcing his administration’s commitment to U.S. manufacturing while framing the tariffs as a national security measure. He stated, “This your truck manufacturers will no longer face a barrage of imported trucks that hurt our economy and security.” (White House)

In contrast, Chris Spear, President of the American Trucking Associations (ATA), has voiced significant concerns regarding the tariffs. Notably, Spear indicated that an increase of 25% on imported heavy-duty tractors could result in price hikes of $30,000 or more per truck, which poses substantial financial challenges. He remarked, “While we support the goal of creating domestic jobs, the implementation of these tariffs will likely escalate costs for truck buyers at a time when the industry is grappling with already challenging conditions.” (ATA)

Economist Arthur Laffer has also raised alarms about the long-term impacts on automotive competitiveness, citing that the proposed tariffs could inflate vehicle costs and hinder U.S. manufacturers’ ability to compete globally. Laffer suggested that preserving the supply chain regulations under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) might be a more effective approach to mitigate these issues rather than imposing broad tariffs. (AP News)

William Kimmitt, Under Secretary of Commerce for International Trade, supported the tariffs, framing them as a critical action to bolster America’s industrial base and national security. Kimmitt emphasized that reinforcing domestic manufacturing could lessen the reliance on foreign products, thereby securing crucial industrial capacities. (Trade.gov)

In summary, while President Trump and some domestic manufacturers endorse the tariffs as protective measures for the U.S. trucking industry, others—like Chris Spear of the ATA—voice apprehension about the economic consequences, including increased operational costs and potential disruptions to supply chains.

Article Summary: Key Insights on Tariffs and Food Truck Equipment Costs

  • Tariff Introduction: President Trump announced a 25% tariff on heavy trucks not built in the U.S., effective October 1, 2025, which significantly raises costs for food truck operators.
  • Cost Burden: This tariff could increase the cost of a new Class 8 truck by around $30,000, with existing truck prices already rising from approximately $140,000 to $170,000 (21% increase) in just two years.
  • Impact on Small Businesses: Food trucks, which typically operate on narrow profit margins (7% to 8%), may struggle to manage these rising costs, potentially limiting their ability to purchase or upgrade equipment.
  • Equipment Cost Comparison: Major manufacturers like Paccar and Volvo have already projected substantial cost increases, creating a disadvantage for U.S. manufactured trucks over similar models made internationally that remain tariff-exempt.
  • Pricing Adjustments: Food truck owners will likely need to adjust menu prices to cover the additional equipment costs, which risks alienating budget-conscious customers and could reduce sales.
  • Risk of Profitability Decline: The combination of higher costs and limited price increases could substantially squeeze profitability, forcing owners to explore alternatives such as used vehicles or rethinking their business strategies.
  • Industry Perspectives: While the government emphasizes national security and support for domestic manufacturing, industry leaders express concerns about the economic ramifications of the tariffs and the potential operational disruptions they could cause.
  • Actionable Takeaway: Food truck owners should be proactive in mitigating financial pressures by researching alternative suppliers, considering used or lease options for trucks, and innovating in menu offerings to maintain customer loyalty amidst rising costs.

Food Truck Owners’ Opinions on New Tariffs

The new 25% tariffs imposed on heavy-duty trucks have raised significant concerns among food truck owners, who are feeling the potential financial strain the tariffs will bring to their operations. Here are the key perspectives and proposed adaptations of food truck operators in response to these changes:

Increased Operating Costs

Many food truck owners are facing increased operating costs due to the projected rise in vehicle prices—estimated to be between $25,000 to $35,000 for new heavy trucks. Industry experts warn that these hikes are particularly burdensome for small businesses. Chris Spear, President and CEO of the American Trucking Associations, noted that these increased costs could prove cost-prohibitive for many small carriers, making it challenging for food truck operators to purchase or upgrade their vehicles [The Trucker].

Supply Chain Disruptions

According to a survey conducted by Gallagher, around 90% of U.S. business owners, including food truck operators, are concerned about potential supply chain disruptions caused by the tariffs. This uncertainty complicates inventory management, as timely access to essential ingredients and supplies is vital for smooth operations [Los Chiflados Truck].

Profit Margin Squeeze

The rising costs affecting both vehicle and ingredient procurement directly threaten profit margins for food truck owners. Reports indicate that companies may face a cumulative cost increase of over $1.2 trillion due to these tariff-related changes, further exacerbating obstacles for food truck operations [Los Chiflados Truck].

Adaptation Strategies

In response, food truck owners have developed various strategies to mitigate the financial impact of the tariffs:

  • Sourcing Locally: Many are turning to locally sourced ingredients to decrease reliance on imports that might be affected by tariffs.
  • Diversifying Suppliers: Food truck operators are exploring different suppliers, both domestic and international, to lessen the risks associated with tariffs.
  • Optimizing Menu Offerings: Restaurant owners are reviewing their menus to identify high-cost items that can be substituted or adjusted to maintain profitability.
  • Investing in Energy Efficiency: Upgrading to energy-efficient equipment can save money in utility costs over time, helping to offset some new expenses.
  • Monitoring Policy Changes: Engaging with industry associations can provide food truck owners with insights and advocacy support as they navigate evolving tariff policies.

Conclusion

The overall sentiment among food truck operators is one of cautious adaptability as they face the challenges imposed by the new tariffs. With strategic planning and resourcefulness, many owners are determined to adjust their business practices to survive and thrive in this changing economic landscape.

A costly barrier for food truck operators due to tariffs

In a surprising announcement, President Trump imposed a 25% tariff on heavy trucks not built in the U.S. This move is reshaping the landscape for the food truck industry. As these tariffs go into effect on October 1, 2025, food truck equipment costs are rising unexpectedly. This increase threatens the financial stability of small businesses nationwide. Food trucks often depend on accessible pricing for durable equipment, making these changes particularly concerning. Moreover, the implications extend beyond just rising expenses; they highlight a broader shift in market dynamics that could hinder innovation and growth in the food truck sector. As we evaluate the specific impacts of these tariffs, it becomes apparent that they could have enduring effects on an industry known for its agility and entrepreneurial spirit.

Financial Impact Insight: The Effects of 25% Tariffs on Food Truck Businesses

The recent imposition of 25% tariffs on heavy trucks not built in the U.S. will have substantial financial implications for the food truck industry, fundamentally reshaping their operational landscape.

Equipment Cost Increases

With the American Trucking Associations estimating that the tariffs could raise the cost of a new Class 8 truck by approximately $30,000, the financial burden will fall heavily on food truck operators. A food truck’s vehicle is often its most significant investment, and the price of Class 8 tractors has already risen markedly from approximately $140,000 in 2021 to around $170,000 in 2023, which is a staggering 21% increase. Small businesses, which already operate on slender margins, may find these additional costs prohibitive, jeopardizing their ability to purchase new trucks or upgrade existing ones.

As reported by industry leader Paccar, the parent company of well-known brands such as Kenworth and Peterbilt, the financial toll of these tariffs is evident. In the third quarter of 2025 alone, Paccar projected $75 million in tariff-related costs. The disparity in pricing is further compounded when comparing U.S. manufactured trucks, which are around $30,000 pricier than similar models made in Mexico, now exempt from these tariffs. This situation places food truck operators in a severe disadvantage, forcing them to reconsider vehicle investment choices.

Pricing Strategies and Customer Retention

The increase in costs will necessitate adjustments in pricing strategies for food truck operators. Raising menu prices to counteract these equipment costs poses a delicate balancing act. Higher prices could alienate budget-conscious customers and potentially reduce foot traffic. Historical data shows that even a modest price increase—for instance, an additional $1 per menu item—can substantially decrease customer retention rates. These challenges are exacerbated by the thin net margins seen in the food truck industry, which generally average between 7% and 8%.

American Trucking Associations president Chris Spear expressed his concerns, stating, “We support the goal of creating domestic jobs. However, the implementation of these tariffs will likely increase costs for truck buyers at a time when the industry is already navigating through a challenging operating environment.”

Profitability Effects

The combination of rising operational costs and limited pricing flexibility can drastically affect profitability in the food truck sector. With net profit margins already precariously low, the increased load from equipment costs can trigger a downward spiral, leading to greater financial strain or even closures among affected food truck operations. Business owners may be compelled to explore alternative strategies—such as seeking used vehicles, diversifying suppliers, or rethinking menu offerings—to mitigate these new financial pressures.

In summary, the financial impact of the 25% tariff on heavy trucks will likely extend far beyond the cost of vehicles, influencing pricing structures and overall business sustainability. As food truck operators adapt to these changes, their agility and entrepreneurial spirit will be put to the test in navigating this new economic landscape.

Historical Tariff Impacts on the Food Truck Industry

Tariffs have historically influenced various sectors of the food truck industry by increasing operational costs and prompting significant adjustments. While direct data on the food truck industry is limited, insights from related sectors provide a comprehensive understanding of these impacts.

Increased Vehicle and Equipment Costs

The “Chicken Tax,” a 25% tariff imposed in 1964 on imported light trucks, exemplifies how tariffs can elevate vehicle costs. This tariff was intended to protect domestic automakers but inadvertently increased prices for imported vehicles, affecting businesses reliant on such trucks. Food truck operators, who often utilize light trucks as their operational base, faced higher acquisition costs due to this tariff. This situation echoes concerns raised by the American Trucking Associations, emphasizing that tariffs can inflate costs significantly (source).

Supply Chain Disruptions and Ingredient Price Hikes

Tariffs on imported food products have led to supply chain disruptions and increased ingredient costs. For instance, tariffs on imported cheeses forced distributors to pay more in 2025, a burden that inevitably trickled down the supply chain. Similarly, tariffs on imported seafood inflated the cost of popular dishes, impacting both the distributor’s procurement budget and food truck menu pricing strategies (source).

Operational Adjustments and Profit Margin Squeeze

In response to rising costs from tariffs, food service businesses, including food trucks, have had to make operational adjustments. These include sourcing domestic or regional alternatives without compromising quality, negotiating long-term contracts with suppliers to lock in prices, adjusting menu pricing and portion sizes to reflect increased costs, and educating customers about sourcing changes to maintain transparency (source).

In summary, while specific data on the food truck industry is scarce, historical instances demonstrate that tariffs can lead to increased vehicle and equipment costs, supply chain disruptions, and necessitate operational adjustments, all of which can significantly impact profit margins. This showcases how interconnected the food truck industry is with broader economic policies and market conditions, illustrating the substantial challenges that can arise from tariff implementations.

Manufacturer Equipment Type Cost Before Tariff ($) Cost After Tariff ($) Price Increase ($)
Paccar Class 8 Truck 140,000 175,000 35,000
Peterbilt Class 8 Truck 145,000 181,250 36,250
Kenworth Class 8 Truck 142,000 177,500 35,500
Freightliner Class 8 Truck 138,000 172,500 34,500
Volvo Class 8 Truck 148,000 185,000 37,000

Conclusion

In conclusion, the 25% tariffs imposed on heavy trucks not built in the U.S. mark a significant threat to the financial stability and operational viability of food truck businesses. As these tariffs take effect, food truck operators face unprecedented equipment costs that could cripple their profitability and hinder their ability to serve customers effectively. It is imperative for food truck owners to adopt proactive strategies to mitigate these financial pressures. Seeking alternative suppliers, both domestically and internationally, could provide more competitive pricing on essential equipment. Additionally, investing in used trucks or exploring leasing options may offer some relief from the immediate financial burden of new purchases. Innovation within menu offerings and operational efficiencies can also help offset rising costs and sustain customer loyalty. The capacity of food truck operators to navigate this volatile environment will ultimately determine their resilience and success in the coming years.

Perspectives of Industry Leaders on Tariffs

The recent implementation of a 25% tariff on medium- and heavy-duty trucks has sparked diverse opinions among industry leaders, reflecting various concerns regarding its implications for the trucking industry and food truck operators.

President Donald J. Trump articulated his rationale for the tariffs in a public statement on October 17, 2025, emphasizing the need to protect “our Great Heavy Truck Manufacturers from unfair outside competition”. He noted that companies such as Peterbilt, Kenworth, Freightliner, and Mack Trucks would benefit from this policy, reinforcing his administration’s commitment to U.S. manufacturing while framing the tariffs as a national security measure. He stated, “This your truck manufacturers will no longer face a barrage of imported trucks that hurt our economy and security.” (source)

In contrast, Chris Spear, President of the American Trucking Associations (ATA), has voiced significant concerns regarding the tariffs. Notably, Spear indicated that an increase of 25% on imported heavy-duty tractors could result in price hikes of $30,000 or more per truck, which poses substantial financial challenges. He remarked, “While we support the goal of creating domestic jobs, the implementation of these tariffs will likely escalate costs for truck buyers at a time when the industry is grappling with already challenging conditions.” (source)

Economist Arthur Laffer has also raised alarms about the long-term impacts on automotive competitiveness, citing that the proposed tariffs could inflate vehicle costs and hinder U.S. manufacturers’ ability to compete globally. Laffer suggested that preserving the supply chain regulations under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) might be a more effective approach to mitigate these issues rather than imposing broad tariffs. (source)

William Kimmitt, Under Secretary of Commerce for International Trade, supported the tariffs, framing them as a critical action to bolster America’s industrial base and national security. Kimmitt emphasized that reinforcing domestic manufacturing could lessen the reliance on foreign products, thereby securing crucial industrial capacities. (source)

In summary, while President Trump and some domestic manufacturers endorse the tariffs as protective measures for the U.S. trucking industry, others—like Chris Spear of the ATA—voice apprehension about the economic ramifications of the tariffs and the potential operational disruptions they could cause.

Article Summary: Key Insights on Tariffs and Food Truck Equipment Costs

  • Tariff Introduction: President Trump announced a 25% tariff on heavy trucks not built in the U.S., effective October 1, 2025, which significantly raises costs for food truck operators.
  • Cost Burden: This tariff could increase the cost of a new Class 8 truck by around $30,000, with existing truck prices already rising from approximately $140,000 to $170,000 (21% increase) in just two years.
  • Impact on Small Businesses: Food trucks, which typically operate on narrow profit margins (7% to 8%), may struggle to manage these rising costs, potentially limiting their ability to purchase or upgrade equipment.
  • Equipment Cost Comparison: Major manufacturers like Paccar and Volvo have already projected substantial cost increases, creating a disadvantage for U.S. manufactured trucks over similar models made internationally that remain tariff-exempt.
  • Pricing Adjustments: Food truck owners will likely need to adjust menu prices to cover the additional equipment costs, which risks alienating budget-conscious customers and could reduce sales.
  • Risk of Profitability Decline: The combination of higher costs and limited price increases could substantially squeeze profitability, forcing owners to explore alternatives such as used vehicles or rethinking their business strategies.
  • Industry Perspectives: While the government emphasizes national security and support for domestic manufacturing, industry leaders express concerns about the economic ramifications of the tariffs and the potential operational disruptions they could cause.
  • Actionable Takeaway: Food truck owners should be proactive in mitigating financial pressures by researching alternative suppliers, considering used or lease options for trucks, and innovating in menu offerings to maintain customer loyalty amidst rising costs.

Food Truck Owners’ Opinions on New Tariffs

The new 25% tariffs imposed on heavy-duty trucks have raised significant concerns among food truck owners, who are feeling the potential financial strain the tariffs will bring to their operations. Here are the key perspectives and proposed adaptations of food truck operators in response to these changes:

Increased Operating Costs

Many food truck owners are facing increased operating costs due to the projected rise in vehicle prices—estimated to be between $25,000 to $35,000 for new heavy trucks. Industry experts warn that these hikes are particularly burdensome for small businesses. Chris Spear, President and CEO of the American Trucking Associations, noted that these increased costs could prove cost-prohibitive for many small carriers, making it challenging for food truck operators to purchase or upgrade their vehicles (source).

Supply Chain Disruptions

According to a survey conducted by Gallagher, around 90% of U.S. business owners, including food truck operators, are concerned about potential supply chain disruptions caused by the tariffs. This uncertainty complicates inventory management, as timely access to essential ingredients and supplies is vital for smooth operations (source).

Profit Margin Squeeze

The rising costs affecting both vehicle and ingredient procurement directly threaten profit margins for food truck owners. Reports indicate that companies may face a cumulative cost increase of over $1.2 trillion due to these tariff-related changes, further exacerbating obstacles for food truck operations (source).

Adaptation Strategies

In response, food truck owners have developed various strategies to mitigate the financial impact of the tariffs:

  • Sourcing Locally: Many are turning to locally sourced ingredients to decrease reliance on imports that might be affected by tariffs.
  • Diversifying Suppliers: Food truck operators are exploring different suppliers, both domestic and international, to lessen the risks associated with tariffs.
  • Optimizing Menu Offerings: Restaurant owners are reviewing their menus to identify high-cost items that can be substituted or adjusted to maintain profitability.
  • Investing in Energy Efficiency: Upgrading to energy-efficient equipment can save money in utility costs over time, helping to offset some new expenses.
  • Monitoring Policy Changes: Engaging with industry associations can provide food truck owners with insights and advocacy support as they navigate evolving tariff policies.

Conclusion

The overall sentiment among food truck operators is one of cautious adaptability as they face the challenges imposed by the new tariffs. With strategic planning and resourcefulness, many owners are determined to adjust their business practices to survive and thrive in this changing economic landscape.