Around 23% of brands are in full-on crisis mode and almost half are planning immediate changes.
(Anaheim, CA) – RepSpark, a leading provider of B2B wholesale e-commerce solutions, has released the findings of an industry-wide survey detailing how tariffs have affected brand and retailer operations.
RepSpark created the report, Experiencing Tariff Turbulence? A Guide for Brands and Retailers to Navigate Uncertainty, Together, based on survey feedback from nearly 200 retailers and brands. It highlights the widespread impact and strategic adjustments brands and retailers are making in response to ongoing tariff uncertainties.
The survey revealed significant disruptions, with 85% of brands and 76% of retailers experiencing direct impacts from tariffs. Rising costs, unpredictable planning cycles, and sourcing disruptions emerged as primary concerns.
Additional key insights from the survey include:
- 54% of brands described the tariffs as “definitely disruptive,” while 23% indicated they are in “full-on crisis mode.”
- 46% of brands feel the urgency to implement changes immediately, while another 35% plan to do so within the next three months.
- Retailers cited apparel, especially polos, pants, outerwear, and footwear, as the most significantly impacted product categories.
- Many retailers are considering domestic sourcing and adjustments in inventory to cope with tariff-induced uncertainties.
“The current tariff freeze provides temporary relief, but businesses must use this period to prepare for potential future disruptions,” said Meghann Butcher, CEO of RepSpark. “Our report offers practical strategies and actionable insights based on how real-world brands and retailers are reacting.”
The report details how retailers are adapting through cautious inventory management, exploring new domestic suppliers, and adjusting retail strategies.
Meanwhile, brands are proactively updating pricing, refining assortments, and strategically sourcing to mitigate risks.
The common thread among most responses underscored a fairly simple message.
In this time of uncertainty, it’s now more important than ever to have transparent communication and collaboration between brands and retailers. Everyone is trying to navigate through a turbulent environment, and being clear with one another will only help all parties involved.
“Understanding peer strategies and customer reactions is crucial in navigating tariff-related challenges,” Butcher said. “Our aim is to empower businesses by sharing insights that help them respond effectively and maintain resilient operations.”
As margin pressure intensifies across retail and wholesale, RepSpark customers are increasing sales productivity, reducing support volume, and improving operational efficiency without adding headcount. They’re doing more, with less.
Some of the key features on RepSpark are allowing brands on the platform to:
- Access real-time inventory, product availability, and accurate customer specific pricing 24/7 to ensure accurate and informed purchasing decisions.
- Collaborate on orders with buyers and reps to reduce delays, increase average order size, and increase sales efficiency.
- Track invoices, view shipments, and confirm order statuses without customer service support to cut unnecessary support questions and response times.
“RepSpark frees up my team to focus more on revenue-generating tasks rather than chasing after product to fill orders placed blindly and suggesting alternatives when we are sold out,” said Lou Delfino, General Manager at Galvin Green.
Visit RepSpark to access the full report and detailed strategies.
About RepSpark Systems
RepSpark is the leading provider of digital solutions for B2B wholesale commerce. Designed to be personalized, intuitive, and powerfully intelligent, RepSpark’s platform drives brands to connect and collaborate with their buyers to place orders, create digital line sheets, and analyze key data 24/7. RepSpark brands leverage technology to drive sales growth and better serve their retailers. Founded in 2007, RepSpark is headquartered in Anaheim, CA. To join the RepSpark Community, create an account at app.repspark.com, and for more information, visit www.repspark.com.
Contact
Eric Gandarilla
Content Marketing Manager
eric.gandarilla@repspark.com
www.repspark.com
