Raising tariffs can drive up consumer prices, lower demand and hurt business profitability. Unless market forces are considered when employing tariffs, these negatives may occur without also achieving the desired benefit of a shift from foreign to domestic production. As tariffs rise, imported goods ... READ MORE >
consumer businesses
Higher tariffs are likely coming; consumer businesses should prepare
As consumer products companies look to a new Trump administration, higher tariffs are most likely on the way. Businesses that prepare now, even as they wait for the tariffs to take shape, will be better positioned to maximize their margins. For example, businesses can adjust to smaller tariffs through ... READ MORE >
Back-to-school outlook: Price sensitivity creates consumer spending shifts
In our second installment of our three-part blog series, RSM’s senior industry analyst explores back-to-school shopping trends and the impact on consumer businesses. Even as inflation has moderated, consumers have indicated price hikes and affordability constraints have remained important ... READ MORE >
Back-to-school outlook: Channel surfing bargains
In our four-part blog series, RSM’s senior industry analysts explore back-to-school shopping trends and the impact on consumer businesses. The beginning of the year saw consumers grappling with economic uncertainty due in large part to high inflation, depleting savings and the fear of an impending ... READ MORE >
Back-to-school consumer business outlook: How will no enhanced child tax credit affect shopping?
As consumers enter the peak back-to-school shopping season (July through September), retailers and other consumer businesses are beginning to make room for backpacks, clothing, school supplies and other back-to-school needs. This season will certainly be different from last year, as consumers are in a ... READ MORE >