Tariffs are impacting local businesses, declining sales

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KRDO) - Across the country, wholesale prices have increased more than expected, according to new data from the Labor Department. A local business in Colorado Springs says they are struggling to keep up.

Owners are saying that these higher prices are affecting products they have been buying for years, and to keep the doors open, they are faced with dropping customer favorites or increasing prices.

One local business owner says they're caught in the middle, telling KRDO13 that she's committed to keeping prices steady, even if it means absorbing the extra cost herself.

Honey tea and me, in Fountain, is Shawndel Sievert's heart; she tells KRDO13 that her business is a hub for the community to pick up some treats and enjoy each other's company.

Due to recent tax increases, Shawndel says she is now worried about the future of her store.

"I'm going to be expected to pass it along to my customers, and I don't do business that way."

Shawdel says her teas are imported from Canada and all around the world, making it hard for her to keep her shelves stocked.

KRDO13 had the chance to compare two different product orders from her business, comparing an order from January and April, which showed a $2 increase per item. The orders from different months showed a $80 difference when ordering in bulk for the same order.

"If this ends up affecting my business to the point that I have to close, that could cost me everything, including my home. It's a really scary time right now."

Shawndel tells KRDO13 that she hasn't even seen the full impact of the new tariff policies, as manufacturers have reached out to her just recently, letting her know there will be another added fee to her orders starting August 29.

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