Impact of Trump's Tariffs on Small Businesses from Food Industry Leaders

Impact of Trump's Tariffs on Small Businesses Highlighted by Food Industry Leaders In a recent discussion, prominent figures from the food industry addressed the influence of tariffs instituted by the Trump administration on small businesses. Pinky Cole Hayes, the founder and CEO of Slutty Vegan, alongside Derrick Hayes, the CEO of Big Dave's Cheesesteaks, shared their insights on how these economic policies are shaping the landscape for small enterprises. During the conversation with Romaine Bostick and Scarlet Fu, the business leaders elaborated on the challenges posed by increased tariffs. They explained that these financial barriers not only affect consumer prices but also impose additional burdens on suppliers and businesses that are still trying to recover from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. According to Cole, "The small business sector is already under considerable strain, and tariffs add another level of difficulty to our operations." This sentiment was echoed by Derrick Hayes, who emphasized the need for support and understanding from policymakers to help small businesses navigate these turbulent times. The discussion shed light on the broader implications of trade policies, highlighting the vital role that small businesses play in the economy. As these entrepreneurs strive to maintain their viability, they call for a more supportive infrastructure to foster growth and sustainability.