Executive Summary
The April 2025 tariff update introduces substantial cost increases across a wide range of categories, including HVAC, plumbing, industrial supplies, electrical, janitorial, PPE, and construction materials. With tariffs targeting key imports from China, Mexico, Canada, and Malaysia—some reaching as high as 50%—distributors are facing immediate pricing pressure and potential supply disruptions.
This addendum provides a focused response strategy, outlining industry-specific impacts and practical mitigation steps. Distributors are encouraged to leverage ERP data to quickly identify exposure, work closely with suppliers to explore cost-sharing or renegotiation, diversify sourcing, and proactively adjust inventory levels. Additionally, companies should dynamically update pricing, communicate transparently with customers, and adopt automation and eCommerce tools to drive operational efficiency.
By acting quickly and strategically, distributors can lessen the financial blow of these new tariffs, safeguard margins, and maintain service continuity during a volatile economic period.