Baltimore, Maryland, November 30, 2025
During Small Business Saturday, Joe Carlson, co-founder of Charm City Books, voiced concerns about a $200 tariff impacting their business. As small businesses grapple with rising costs due to tariffs, community support is vital. Many small retailers are experiencing cost hikes that challenge their profitability, pushing for legislative changes to alleviate the burden of trade policies.
Baltimore Bookstore Co-Founder Faces Tariff Challenges on Small Business Saturday
Baltimore, Maryland – On November 29, 2025, during the annual “Small Business Saturday,” Joe Carlson, co-founder of Charm City Books in Baltimore, expressed frustration over a $200 tariff imposed on a shipment of handcrafted items. Despite the day’s sales boost, Carlson questioned the rationale behind the tariff, stating, “It just hurts us.”
Impact of Tariffs on Small Businesses
Small businesses nationwide are grappling with increased costs due to tariffs. A survey revealed that 60% of small business owners have experienced higher expenses for imported materials or goods. Among these, 57% reported cost increases ranging from 10% to 25%, and 24% faced hikes between 26% and 50%.
Broader Economic Concerns
Beyond individual businesses, the broader retail sector is feeling the strain. Small retailers, which constitute 98% of the industry and support over 13 million American jobs, are particularly vulnerable. These businesses are facing significant challenges due to the aggressive trade strategies and increased tariffs.
Community Support and Future Outlook
Despite these challenges, community support remains strong. Carlson emphasized the importance of local patronage, noting that Small Business Saturday is a vital day for demonstrating the value of locally owned businesses to the community’s economic and cultural vitality.
Background on Tariff Policies
The current tariff landscape has been shaped by recent U.S. trade policies, which have led to increased costs for imported goods. Small businesses, operating on tight margins, are particularly affected, often lacking the resources to absorb these additional expenses. This situation has prompted calls for legislative action to address the concerns of small business owners.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Small Business Saturday?
- Small Business Saturday is an annual event that encourages consumers to shop at local, independently owned businesses, typically held on the Saturday after Thanksgiving.
- How have tariffs affected small businesses?
- Tariffs have led to increased costs for imported materials and goods, with many small businesses experiencing price hikes ranging from 10% to over 50%, impacting their profitability and pricing strategies.
- What is the significance of community support for small businesses?
- Community support is crucial for small businesses, especially during events like Small Business Saturday, as it helps sustain their operations and underscores their role in the local economy and culture.
- What are the broader economic implications of increased tariffs?
- Increased tariffs have raised costs for small retailers, which make up 98% of the retail sector and support over 13 million American jobs, potentially leading to financial strain and reduced consumer spending.
- What actions are being considered to address the impact of tariffs on small businesses?
- Legislative actions are being considered to provide relief to small businesses affected by tariffs, including potential exemptions and other supportive measures.
| Key Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Event | Small Business Saturday |
| Location | Baltimore, Maryland |
| Business Affected | Charm City Books |
| Issue | $200 tariff on imported handcrafted items |
| Survey Findings | 60% of small business owners have experienced higher costs due to tariffs; 57% report increases of 10% to 25%; 24% report increases of 26% to 50% |
| Community Support | Emphasized as vital for sustaining small businesses and their role in the local economy and culture |
| Broader Economic Impact | Small retailers, constituting 98% of the retail sector and supporting over 13 million American jobs, are facing financial strain due to increased tariffs |
| Legislative Actions | Consideration of measures to provide relief to small businesses affected by tariffs, including potential exemptions |
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