Proud of Ifen Sung Carlson for sharing an unemotional explanation of how tariffs are impacting the millions of small businesses that drive the US economy, including Luvons. And, why it won't be a quick and easy fix to domestically manufacture the goods consumers desire.
A $30K shipment turned into $62K—without changing a thing. I’m Ifen, founder of Luvons. We make stylish, washable slippers for women. With new tariffs on Chinese imports, we haven’t changed our prices or our product—yet bringing in the same inventory today would cost nearly twice as much. People often ask, “Why not make them in the U.S.?” I’ve asked myself that too. But the reality is more complicated than most people realize. In this video, I share the real cost of tariffs, why small brands like mine still manufacture overseas, and the tough choices we’re now facing. 💬 I’d love to hear from others navigating this same terrain. www.myLuvons.com #FounderStory #TariffsExplained #SupportSmallBusiness #EntrepreneurLife #SupplyChain #LuvonsStyle #WomensFootwear #SmallBusinessChallenges
Steve (and Ifen), this is fascinating deeper insight on a top-of-mind subject, put in terms that this SMB founder can easily relate to. In addition to the vital cost and logistical points you cover, I'm also struck by the reduction in innovation options the tariff taxes will bring. As Ifen Sung Carlson mentions, it will take some time to feel and understand the impact.
Ifen, this message is such a clear explanation of the impact of these tariffs. Well done!
Thanks for sharing, Steve
Thank you Ifen Sung Carlson for sharing the impact of tariffs on your small business Luvens and your customers!
Very well explained. This tariff war does nothing except hurt our American businesses, small and large. The countries we are imposing these tariffs on are already looking for and finding alternative marketing in other parts of the world. Again hurting America's supply side.
That $30K to $62K jump tells the whole story—and it’s hitting a lot of small businesses quietly right now. What Ifen laid out so clearly is what many founders struggle to explain: it’s not just about price or patriotism—it’s about systems, timelines, and tradeoffs most consumers never see. And when costs double overnight, it’s not just margin at stake—it’s survival. Appreciate you both shedding light on this, Steve. These stories don’t always make headlines, but they shape the economy more than we realize. 👏
Ifen - very helpful to have a real life example out in the public square for folks to digest. I've been taken aback by the number of friends who work in many many different types of industries whose businesses are now in a state of ongoing uncertainty as to how the tariffs will affect their supply chain management and unit economics.
Excellent breakdown Ifen. Crushing the impact on our home turf when messaging is pointing in a different direction.
Interim | Fractional Chief Marketing Officer | Brand & Performance Builder | Former Walt Disney, Visa, MasterCard
2moThanks for sharing, Steve. While many understand that these tariffs are nothing more than a tax on Americans and have nothing to do with trade, it cannot be restated enough. Good luck to you guys during this difficult and tumultuous time.