With the 30 day pause on the implementation of 25% tariffs between US and Canada, the beauty industry is now breathing a sigh of relief.
The recent imposition of tariffs by President Donald Trump has introduced significant challenges for small, independent Canadian beauty brands. Originally set for February 4, 2025, these tariffs would include a 25% levy on Canadian goods entering the U.S., aiming to address concerns over drug trafficking and illegal immigration. For many Canadian beauty companies, especially indie beauty brands, the U.S. represents a substantial market, and these new tariffs threaten to disrupt this dynamic in multiple ways.
One of the most immediate consequences is the increase in costs. With a 25% tariff on exports, Canadian beauty products may become less competitive compared to U.S.-made alternatives. This added expense forces brands to either absorb the cost, cutting into already tight profit margins, or pass it on to consumers, potentially reducing sales. Supply chains also face new hurdles, as many beauty brands rely on sourcing ingredients and packaging from various countries. The tariffs create further complications, increasing both expenses and logistical challenges.
Adjusting pricing strategies becomes another key consideration. Some brands may attempt to offset rising costs by raising prices, but with inflation already putting pressure on consumers, there is a risk of losing customer loyalty. Many indie beauty brands differentiate themselves through affordability and accessibility, and sudden price hikes could push consumers toward larger, more established competitors that can absorb costs more easily.
To navigate these challenges, Canadian beauty brands will need to rethink their strategies. Exploring alternative international markets beyond the U.S. could provide a buffer against the impact of tariffs. Some brands may consider localizing production, ensuring that more of their ingredients and packaging come from within Canada to avoid additional costs. Others might restructure their supply chains, sourcing materials from countries with more favorable trade agreements. There is also an opportunity for industry collaboration and advocacy, where brands can work together to push for better trade policies or government support.
For us at Luna Nectar, being a Canadian business is something we are proud of. We're proud of our roots, our expansive diversity, our beautiful landscapes. We are also a Canadian business with many friends and ties in the US (recently vetted by US-based Ulta Beauty as 1 of 8 brands chosen for their ULTA Muse Accelerator program). It’s complicated - we source ingredients from both US and Canada, and manufacture in Canada. We ship from both US and Canada 🇨🇦 🇺🇸
Like many other small businesses, we’re going to be working through this situation one day at a time to ensure you get all of your natural high-quality, luxury haircare, skincare, and wellness needs. That is our main focus - we are pressing on in our plans of launching new products in a few months, and tending to our other exciting projects this year. We’re vowing not to ‘pass on’ anything to our customers, and are in talks with our advisors across the border on strategies.
If you love our products, we’d truly appreciate it if you shared them with a friend, left a review on our site, or drop your favorite Luna Nectar product on our social media pages. Every little bit makes a big difference! Thank you so much in advance, and we are grateful to be part of this clean beauty movement with you.
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