A Note From The Tariff Tightrope For Museums April 3rd, 2025

Tariffs. On products from over 100 countries.

big breaths in and out

Really?

Really.

The clock is ticking, and with additional tariff implementation looming, museum stores are facing more uncertainty. Of course it affects our stores but these tariffs ripple through the entire museum ecosystem, impacting everything from exhibition materials to operational supplies.

And let's be honest, in today's economy, who knows if these tariffs are permanent, if they'll change, or what we'll face next on this ever-spinning merry-go-round.

I’ll say it. It’s a lot.

From IMLS to tariffs to having how we tell American History go under the microscope. Not to mention the litany of other newsworthy items.

Was I surprised by all of this? No. But I am determined.

I know you are too.

The Impact Is Immediate

• Uncertainty.

• Shrinking Margins, Rising Prices: The increased cost of imported goods directly impacts profit margins. To maintain viability, stores face the difficult choice of raising retail prices, potentially affecting sales volume, or absorbing the costs, squeezing already tight budgets.

Beyond the Store: The Ripple Effect

The impact of tariffs extends far beyond the museum store's shelves:

• Exhibition Materials and Displays: Many exhibition components, from display cases to interactive elements, are sourced internationally. Tariffs can drive up the cost of creating and maintaining exhibitions, potentially impacting programming and budget allocations.

• Operational Supplies: Even seemingly mundane items like office supplies, cleaning materials, and maintenance equipment may be subject to tariffs, increasing operational costs.

• Conservation and Restoration: Specialized materials used in conservation and restoration work, often sourced from specific international suppliers, can become significantly more expensive.

What We Can Do

• Direct your energy towards what you can control: your strategy, your communication with vendors, your internal planning.

• Take another look at your budgets.

• Stay informed and network/brainstorm with your fellow institutions.

• Keep communication open with staff.

• Know we’re in this together.

Navigating these complex challenges requires strategic planning and expert guidance. If you're looking for support in optimizing your museum store's sourcing, budgeting, and overall resilience, dive into my blogs and please don't hesitate to contact me. Let's work together to ensure you and your museum's continued success.