The Tariff Crisis Exposes a Deeper Issue in Promo
We Need Supply Chain Transparency Now
Tariffs and geopolitical uncertainty dominate the headlines, sending shockwaves through the promotional products industry and impacting our work daily. But here’s the kicker: While the tariff crisis is hitting us hard, it’s also exposing a much deeper, long-standing issue within our industry—our struggle to access precise and reliable country of origin (COO) information.
This matters. A lot.
Why Country of Origin Information is Crucial
For those of us navigating the evolving tariff structures, COO data isn’t a “nice-to-have” anymore; it’s essential. Without accurate COO information, we’re left in the dark—unable to respond to policy changes, offer transparent answers to our clients, or make informed, ethical sourcing decisions. And this isn’t just about compliance. It’s about trust.
If you look at the retail industry, brands like Patagonia and Nike have been leaders in providing visibility into their supply chains. They openly share factory locations and COO details—not because they must but because transparency is central to their values. This builds trust with their customers, aligns with their ethical commitments, and positions them as forward-thinking companies.
It’s time for the promo industry to follow suit.
The Promo Industry’s Transparency Gap
The promotional products industry may have built itself on creativity and innovation, but we’re lagging regarding supply chain transparency. The basics are missing with limited or outdated COO data in our platforms and product catalogs. Here’s why it matters now more than ever:
- Ethical Sourcing: Today, businesses are under more substantial scrutiny for how and where their products are made. Ethical practices are a must, not a bonus.
- Compliance with Regulations: Tariffs and trade restrictions can change instantly, and businesses must react quickly. Without accurate COO data, we’re left scrambling.
- Building Client Trust: Clients want to know that the products they’re sourcing reflect their brand values. How can we deliver on that promise if we can’t provide transparent information?
We need reliable COO data for compliance and to empower more competent, ethical choices across the board.
Tariff Crisis: A Call for Transparency
Collaboration is key for the promo industry to thrive in this new landscape. Here’s what we need to see to move forward and address the COO transparency gap effectively:
- Visible COO Information on
Product Pages
Imagine having clear COO details always outlined directly on promo product listings—readily available to distributors and their clients. This simple step simplifies processes and eliminates unwelcome surprises when regulations shift.
- Up-to-Date COO Data in
Industry Platforms
Tools like SAGE, ESP, and other platforms we rely on daily must prioritize incorporating accurate, regular updates to their COO databases. This should be a foundational feature for industry tools—not an afterthought.
- A Willingness to Work
Together
This call isn’t just for suppliers or distributors—it’s for everyone within the industry. From platform providers to manufacturers, we need to prioritize transparency collectively. This is about aligning our processes and platforms to serve businesses better while preserving ethical sourcing and communication.
Why Transparency Reflects Your Values
Supply chain transparency goes beyond logistics—it reflects who we are and how we do business. It communicates that the promo industry has evolved alongside consumer expectations, geopolitical changes, and sustainability values. Plus, it’s what clients want. According to research, 72% of consumers say transparency is crucial to purchasing.
By embracing COO transparency, we become partners clients can trust—not just suppliers. We stand for something more significant than the product itself.
To Industry Leaders, It’s Time to Act
To our supplier partners, platform providers, and distributors across the industry—this is your moment. The exciting part is that we don’t need to wait for a global movement to start. It begins with intentional actions to prioritize transparency now.
At a time when geopolitical tension and tariff uncertainty weigh heavy, this isn’t just about solving problems for today; it’s about ensuring long-term success for the promo industry.
This is the future. And we’re ready to work shoulder-to-shoulder with you to make it happen.
The Path Forward: Addressing the Tariff Crisis
Building trust and maintaining transparency isn’t just beneficial for businesses; it creates ripples that build a stronger, more reliable industry. Whether you’re a supplier, distributor, or business owner, advocating for supply chain transparency isn’t a challenge you face alone—it’s an opportunity for collaboration, growth, and ethical progress.
Are you ready to be part of the change?