NRF urges a strategic scaleback of tariffs and a clear trade policy that prioritizes American businesses, workers and consumers. Learn more.
The retail industry is grappling with the effects of a tariff-centric trade policy being pursued by policymakers in Washington, D.C. Frequent and sporadic changes in tariffs rates are causing significant uncertainty, straining business operations and increasing costs. While all retailers feel the pressure, small and medium-sized businesses are especially vulnerable. Many are unable to absorb the added expenses without raising prices or risking closure.
Recognizing this urgent need, the National Retail Federation is ensuring that small retailers’ voices are being heard in Washington, D.C., through direct connections with policymakers, media engagement and grassroots mobilization.
Since President Trump’s sweeping “Liberation Day” reciprocal tariffs announcements in April, NRF has hosted monthly fly-in events that enable small retailers to meet directly with policymakers to share their impactful stories. So far these fly-ins have resulted in over 150 meetings with congressional offices and key administration officials, ensuring that decision-makers hear directly from affected businesses.
Jared Hendricks, owner of Village Lighting Company, appreciated the opportunity to share how he is being affected by the unintended consequences of the tariffs. “I love that they're trying to bring more production here,” he says. “But until that point, it doesn’t do any good to put people like me — innovators and entrepreneurs — out of business. Partner with us. Let us be part of the solution, not collateral damage.”
Jess Nepsted of Planetary Design echoed that sentiment during his meetings with lawmakers in June. “The way these policies were rolled out gave us no time to react,” he says. “We either raise prices or go out of business. We’ve spent more time dealing with tariffs than we did on COVID. Tariffs have a place in policy, but they need to be implemented more strategically.”
For Xan Hood, founder and CEO of Buffalo Jackson Trading Co., the opportunity to walk through the halls of Congress and meet with White House officials alongside NRF was eye-opening. “It was a powerful reminder that small business voices can be heard and need to be heard,” he says. “To sit face-to-face with lawmakers and see them truly listen was an honor. It gave me hope that our stories matter.”
NRF is continuing to shape the narrative on how tariffs are impacting the industry and customers through a combination of media outreach and grassroots mobilization.
Nearly 70 small business owners have participated in media interviews arranged by NRF, sharing their stories with national audiences. These efforts have contributed to over 6,000 news stories featuring small business perspectives on tariffs. Overall, NRF has been mentioned in more than 14,000 articles, reaching an audience of over 37 billion.
In addition, NRF’s grassroots network has mobilized to send more than 1,600 messages to members of Congress, urging them to consider the real-world impact of tariff policies.
As the leading voice for the retail industry, NRF continues to advocate for trade policies that support growth, innovation and resilience. Learn more at NRF.com/tariffsimpact.
