Tariffs, trade wars, and their impact on local businesses—it's a complex landscape, isn't it? But what if a local furniture store managed to navigate these challenges with surprising ease? Let's dive into the story of All Wood Furniture, a Louisiana-based company with locations in Baton Rouge and Lafayette. They've found a unique way to weather the storm of tariffs, and it's a lesson in resilience and local sourcing.
Doug Duhon, a veteran of over 20 years in his family's business, explains that their secret weapon is simple: local materials. "We try to use the beauty of Cypress, because it's a Louisiana wood. We have craftsmen who have been working on this for years, and our product has a distinct look," he shares. This focus on local resources has shielded them from the full force of tariffs.
Specifically, the tariffs enacted by President Donald Trump last year, which imposed a 25% tariff on imported upholstered furniture, kitchen cabinets, and vanities, barely touched All Wood Furniture.
But here's where it gets controversial... Initially, these tariffs were slated to increase in the new year, potentially reaching 30% and even 50%. However, the president reversed course at the end of 2025, announcing the increase wouldn't be implemented for 2027. This decision brought some relief, but the underlying economic pressures remained.
"As far as tariffs go, we're probably getting some trickle-down effect. We buy Louisiana wood from Louisiana, so gas prices may make it go up or down. We've kept our prices at a reasonable rate to benefit our customers," Duhon explains.
And this is the part most people miss... The biggest impact, according to Duhon, came from the products they use to finish their furniture. "The company we use to make it as a well-known national manufacturer, they're probably pulling chemicals or whatever they're putting in it all around the world, and that might affect them with their constant raising of prices, usually, stains, lacquers, that we use anything to do with finishing.” This highlights the interconnectedness of the supply chain, even for a locally-focused business.
Fluctuating gas prices also presented a challenge, but Duhon remains committed to absorbing costs rather than passing them on to customers. This commitment to their customers is a testament to their business philosophy.
What do you think? Is local sourcing the key to weathering economic storms? Do you think businesses should absorb costs, or is it fair to pass them on to consumers? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
