Navigating Uncertainty: An Action Plan

The 90-day reduction in tariffs announced recently is an encouraging step toward easing the pressure on retailers. We advocated strongly for a 90-day pause to allow for the free flow of goods to store shelves. Thousands of business decision makers signed our “Stand With Main Street. Turn Off Tariffs.” petition, which was delivered to key decision makers in Washington. Thank you to everyone who joined our coalition.

But the work is not over. Economic questions, tariff shifts, and supply chain challenges are creating uncertainty for stores and manufacturers, especially Main Street retail. Products slated to arrive for the fourth quarter may be delayed or prices may rise, leaving retailers with important decisions to make for the most critical sales season of the year.

What can you do?

Below is our action plan for retailers faced with disruption. The time to act is now. Planning is critically important regardless of any temporary tariffs adjustments.

  1. Participate. Attend summer markets and attend our networking and roundtable events that have been created to help you navigate the months ahead.
  2. Make a Plan. We have tips below to help you create a plan as you strategize for the holidays sales season.
  3. Stay Informed. Review the resources below that can help you understand what’s happening, connect with key business organizations to help, and move forward.