New Tariffs Could Raise Prices on Toys, Fashion, and Everyday Goods Across the U.S.

New tariffs could soon hit wallets hard, impacting everything from toys to fashion across the United States. NBC’s Deanna Durant reports that local businesses are already preparing to shield customers from price increases.

At Learning Express, a specialty toy store with two locations, owner Caroline Brandt is stocking up early. She’s prioritizing American-made products like Da Bomb bath bombs and Crazy Aaron’s products — the latter made locally in Montgomery County. But Brandt admits, even that won't be enough.

"Eighty percent of toys are made in China," she said. "We’re trying to buy as much inventory at current prices before tariffs impact costs later."

Brandt said lessons learned from the pandemic — including the importance of buying when inventory is available — are guiding her strategy again. Beyond stocking up, she’s boosting loyalty programs, offering coupons, and encouraging social media sharing to keep business steady.

Meanwhile, in Collegeville, Christy Mac Lytle, owner of Niche, says fast fashion will likely take the hardest hit. She's focusing on unique, sustainable options, including brands that thrift, cut, and resew clothing in the U.S.

"People are realizing fast fashion pieces often don't last," Mac Lytle said. "Customers are starting to value quality over quick bargains."

As uncertainty over tariffs continues, local businesses are adapting fast — hoping their strategies will protect both their stores and their customers in the months ahead.

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