Tariff Impacts


Helping your business thrive is our first priority. That’s why we’re working to minimize the effect of tariffs. Check this page for the most current updates.



April 10, 2025 – Take 2: Tariffs and SanMar – Our response to the latest news


Partners and friends,

“Pivot” was an overused buzzword during the pandemic, and I promised myself I’d never use it again. But given the events of the last several days, I’d say pivot is back.  Pivot we must, so pivot we will. 

As I’m sure you know by now, the White House has announced a 90-day pause on reciprocal tariffs. During the pause, the tariff amount will be an even 10%. The one exception is China, where the rate has increased to 145%.  

Because of this, we’re changing our plan from last week to the following:

•    We’ll still raise prices June 1 on all private label and retail brands. This will be a very modest increase—as opposed to the “not insignificant” amount I mentioned previously—to offset the 10% base tariff. We’ll share an exact number as soon as we can. 

•    Prices on our basics brand Volunteer Knitwear, which is made in Tennessee and not subject to any tariffs, will stay the same.  

•    After the 90-day pause, we’ll decide if we need a second price increase. I realize this contradicts what I said before, but circumstances have changed. We are hopeful that countries can come to an agreement with the U.S. and additional price increases are not needed.

That said, SanMar is not a spectator. We’re actively engaged with our partners in manufacturing, trade and policy to minimize the impact tariffs have on your business. We entered the year with less than 7% of our products sourced from China, and we’re very close to ceasing all production in China.

We’ll continue to communicate with you as we learn more and as the situation develops. Regardless of what’s happening in the world, our focus is on our long-term partnership and supporting you every way we can.


Thank you for trusting SanMar through the good times and the pivots.

Best, 

Jeremy Lott 
President & CEO