Small business owners are anxiously awaiting the outcome of a Supreme Court case that could clarify whether President Donald Trump has the authority to impose tariffs without Congress's approval.
Freshorize produces soaps, lotions, and cleaning products commonly found on airplanes. Rebecca Dobo, the director of operations at Freshorize USA, highlighted the company's local roots:
“Anytime you fly and you see soap, know it happens right here in Florida.”
The company supplies major airlines such as Delta and United Airlines. Their patented products require specialized equipment and skills that are currently unavailable within the United States.
Most of Freshorize's manufacturing is outsourced to China, where tariffs recently increased to 55%. This steep rise has caused significant financial strain:
“We are probably paying almost double what we have historically in tariffs, which has significantly cut into our bottom line and limits our capability to bring manufacturing into the states because now that profit is not there that we could reinvest here.”
Although Freshorize is exploring alternative manufacturing options, switching suppliers is complicated and difficult for small businesses.
The Supreme Court case could redefine tariff authority, with small businesses like Freshorize facing substantial financial challenges amid rising tariffs and complex supply chain issues.