It came to my inbox today. The tariffs email. I’ve been expecting it and dreading it. I’m sure it’s the first of many.
The email came from one of my suppliers. “Due to the announcement of reciprocal tariffs in addition to pre-existing tariffs in place, material costs have largely increased across the board, resulting in immediate action and price adjustments.”
I went to the website to see just how high prices were. Coconut oil went up from $47 a box to $90 a box. Palm oil was up from $28 to $55, and shea butter from $124 to $181.
Last winter, a little voice in my head told me prices would go up. I stocked up on my base oils in January and I can probably last through the holiday season. (Fingers crossed)
Should I re-formulate my recipe? I don’t want to. The only way to re-formulate to save money is to use cheaper base oils. Oils like canola, soybean and corn. I’ve tried those oils in soap and I don’t like them. And if I don’t like the soap, I can’t sell it. I’m not that great a salesperson.
Will things stabilize and will prices come down? I can hope and pray. But prices went up after covid and never really came down too much. Supplies are still sometimes hard to find.
It’s looking like a price increase is in the future of Alegna Soap. I’m not happy about it at all. My customers won’t be happy either.
Maybe it’s time to close shop? I’m not ready for that either.
Support the small businesses in your area please. We’re struggling, just like you.
Yours in Gratitude,
Angela